Turning Point USA CEO Erica Kirk has been appointed to the Air Force Academy Board of Visitors, replacing her late husband Charlie Kirk. This 16-member board is responsible for making recommendations to the Secretary of Defense for changes at the Air Force Academy. The report claims that the board did not announce the appointment of Erica Kirk, although her name is now on the list of members. “Charlie Kirk served with pride on the board, inspiring not only the next generation of service members but millions of people around the world with his bold Christian faith, defense of the truth, and deep love of country,” White House spokeswoman Olivia Wells said in a statement. “Erica Kirk will continue her legacy, and be a fearless advocate for the most elite airpower in the history of the world, whose warriors keep our nation safe, strong, and free.”“Erica is the right person to fill Charlie’s place on the board and continue her work of inspiring the next generation of service members and moving the Academy forward,” board chair Representative August Pfluger (R-Texas) told NBC affiliate KOAA. “I look forward to working with Charlie to carry on his legacy,” said Pfluger, who claimed he recommended Erica Kirk’s appointment months ago.
Big controversy over Erica’s appointment
Social media users, particularly those on Candace Owens’ side, who have been publicly shaming Erica Kirk, questioned why Erica was chosen when she had no military experience, with many commenting that they only found Charlie’s post, not any new posts. “Such unnecessary outrage. Charlie was on the board. His position was exposed when he was assassinated. It is appropriate for his widow to take his place. If you had taken even a minute to understand the context you would have known. But no one. Outrage is your only reaction,” wrote one. “Who is he really? Why would he be appointed to that particular position?” One asked. Activist Zach Costello wrote, “Erica Kirk’s appointment to this Air Force Academy board happened quietly over the weekend without any formal announcement. I’m sorry, but as the widow of an influential husband you are not qualified to advise the Department of Defense about Air Force standards.”