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Turning Point USA Leader Endorses VP Vance for 2028 Presidency

2025-12-19

The BareStory

Erika Kirk, the leader of the conservative organization Turning Point USA, endorsed Vice President JD Vance for the 2028 presidential election during a speech on Thursday. The announcement occurred at the group's AmericaFest conference in Phoenix, where Kirk stated the organization would work to get Vance elected. Vance, who is scheduled to speak at the event on Sunday, has not officially declared a presidential candidacy.

Kirk became the CEO of Turning Point after its founder and her husband, Charlie Kirk, was killed in September 2025. The endorsement is seen as significant due to the organization's influence, particularly among younger conservatives. A close friendship reportedly existed between Vance and the late Charlie Kirk. Following his death, Vance was said to have credited Kirk with his own political rise and with helping to staff President Donald Trump's current administration.

While Vance has not committed to running, other political figures have commented on a potential candidacy. In an interview published this week, Secretary of State Marco Rubio reportedly stated he would be one of the first to support Vance. In October, President Trump was said to have referred to Vance and Rubio as "great" options for presidential candidates. Vance stated in an interview last month that his focus was on the vice presidency and the 2026 midterm elections, and that he would discuss a potential 2028 run with the president after those elections.

Left Perspective

  • An influential conservative organization has endorsed Vance for president.
  • Key political figures have signaled their approval of a potential run.
  • The endorsement is linked to a significant political and personal relationship.

Right Perspective

  • The Vice President has not declared a presidential candidacy.
  • His stated focus remains on his current role and near-term elections.
  • A decision on a 2028 run will be considered at a later date.

How it may affect me

As a U.S. reader:

• An early endorsement for the 2028 election may shift political and media attention toward a future campaign, potentially drawing focus from more immediate government business.

• Support from an organization influential with younger conservatives could shape the Republican party's long-term policy platform and priorities heading into the 2028 election cycle.

• As a potential presidential candidate, the Vice President's involvement in the 2026 midterm elections may now receive increased national scrutiny by the public and media.

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