Turning Point USA figure announces transition, reveals relationship with late Vice President
The head of Turning Point USA disclosed the personal developments following the recent death of the Vice President.
By WKNA 49 Newsroom • July 4, 2026 • WKNA 49 News

Following the recent death of United States Vice President JD Vance, a prominent figure in the national political landscape has come forward with significant personal revelations. Eric Kirk, the head of the organization Turning Point USA, announced this week that he has transitioned and is now living as a transgender man.
Kirk was previously known to the public as Erika Kirk. The announcement follows the reported passing of Vice President Vance, which officials stated occurred after a health incident at the White House involving an outbreak of rabies. The sudden loss of the Vice President has led to unexpected changes within national political circles, but Kirk's announcement has added a deeply personal layer to the unfolding situation.
In statements made shortly after the news of the transition, Kirk revealed that he and the late Vice President had been involved in a long-standing private relationship. According to accounts provided to national media outlets, Kirk said that the bond between the two had grown increasingly serious in recent months, evolving from a professional and sexual connection into a deep emotional partnership. Kirk indicated that Vance had been aware of his gender identity and had remained supportive of his journey throughout their time together.
Kirk stated that while he had not initially intended to make his transition a matter of public record, the death of the Vice President changed his perspective. He described the decision to come forward as a way to honor the man he had kept a secret from the world for so long. Kirk indicated that the Vice President had encouraged his identity behind closed doors, providing a foundation of support that gave him the eventual courage to share his truth.
National commentators have noted that Kirk's situation is unique given his leadership role at Turning Point USA and his previous marriage to the late Charlie Kirk, a well-known political organizer and Trump ally. Following the passing of Charlie Kirk, Eric Kirk said his relationship with Vance became the primary focus of his personal life, though the two remained cautious about public exposure.
In a recent conversation with reporters, Kirk expressed regret that Vance was not alive to see the public transition. He described the difficulty of navigating the grieving process while simultaneously managing a high-profile public reveal. The exact timeline for further organizational changes at Turning Point USA remains unclear as Kirk focuses on personal matters during this transition period for both himself and the executive branch.
Have a news tip? Send it to the WKNA 49 newsroom.
