Erika Kirk, widow of activist Charlie Kirk, sparked a flurry of online reactions after a slip of the tongue during a speech at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest in Phoenix, Arizona.
The 37-year-old was presenting the Charlie Kirk Courage Award to Utah Valley University student Caleb Chilcutt when the moment went sideways.
Instead of delivering a smooth tribute, Erika mixed up her words, saying: “Despite the devastating loss of Charlie Kirk, my incredible husband, Caleb has persisted with the same grift, gift, grit… it has been a long day.”
She quickly added, laughing, “Trust me, you’re not a grifter, honey. It’s all good.”
Student Laughs Along and Joins the Fun
Chilcutt, the award recipient and chapter president of Utah Valley University’s TPUSA, took the moment in stride.
On social media, he added a playful nod to Erika’s gaffe in his Instagram bio, calling himself “Turning Point’s favorite grifter.”
The student was honored for his work in preserving Charlie Kirk’s memory on campus and establishing an official memorial, a tribute that reflects his dedication to the late activist’s legacy.
Social Media Explodes Over the Gaffe
The awkward moment didn’t go unnoticed online.
Viewers flooded X with reactions, calling it everything from a “Freudian slip” to “incredible” and debating whether Erika meant it or simply had a long day.
One user wrote, “Oops… that wasn’t supposed to come out,” while another quipped, “Freudian slip or on purpose? Hard to tell with Erika.”
The slip even sparked playful speculation involving conservative podcaster Candace Owens, with some joking that Erika had Owens on her mind during the speech.
Tensions Between Erika Kirk and Candace Owens
For weeks, Erika and Owens have sparred publicly over Charlie Kirk’s legacy, engaging in heated exchanges on social media, podcasts, and TV panels.
Owens has promoted controversial theories about Charlie Kirk’s death, while Erika has been fiercely protective of her husband’s memory.
Despite the public feud, both parties met in person on Monday for a marathon five-hour discussion.
They described the meeting as “productive,” though the details of their conversation remain private.
A Moment That Will Be Remembered
While Erika’s verbal stumble quickly became a viral moment, it also highlighted the human side of grief and public life.
Caleb Chilcutt’s poise, the audience’s reactions, and Erika’s self-deprecating humor all combined to make the award presentation unforgettable — for better or worse.
Though the internet will likely continue to dissect the moment, the event’s purpose remains clear: celebrating the courage and dedication of young activists who carry forward the mission of Charlie Kirk.
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