Inside Turning Point USA’s First AmericaFest Since Charlie Kirk’s Death

Turning Point USA held its annual AmericaFest conference last weekend. The event took place in Phoenix, Arizona from December 18. This was the first major gathering since founder Charlie Kirk was killed in September.

The four-day convention blended politics, faith, and media spectacle. According to reporting from Rolling Stone, about 30,000 attendees gathered. The event revealed an organization navigating leadership and messaging after its founder’s death.

Internal Rivalries and Political Posturing Take Center Stage

The conference opened with notable public feuds. Commentator Ben Shapiro used his speech to criticize other conservative media figures. He called out Tucker Carlson, Candace Owens, and Steve Bannon by name.

Shapiro accused them of “conspiracism and dishonesty.” This public airing of grievances highlighted deep fractures within the movement. The stage became a platform for internal score-settling as much as for unifying rhetoric.

Donald Trump Jr. also made a significant declaration. He stated the movement is no longer the “Republican Party.” He reframed it as the “America First” and “Make America Great Again” parties.

A pre-recorded message from former President Donald Trump was played. This reinforced the event’s loyalty to the Trump brand. The political messaging was clear and direct for the assembled crowd.

A Legacy Cemented and a Future Contested

Charlie Kirk’s presence dominated the event despite his absence. His image was displayed on massive screens and signage throughout the venue. A replica of the “Prove Me Wrong” tent, where he was shot, was erected for photo opportunities.

His widow, Erika Kirk, assumed a prominent public leadership role. She addressed the crowd multiple times during the programming. Her speeches reinforced the group’s continuity and framed ongoing challenges as spiritual battles.

The event also looked toward future political contests. Speeches and programming signaled early support for Senator J.D. Vance. He is being positioned as a potential presidential contender for the 2028 election.

House Speaker Mike Johnson pledged support for a statue of Kirk in the U.S. Capitol. This marked a step toward cementing Kirk’s legacy within official institutions. The political canonization process was visibly underway.

The 2025 AmericaFest served as a pivotal moment for Turning Point USA, showcasing its influence and internal tensions as it builds a political future without its founder, Charlie Kirk.

Thought you’d like to know

What was the main purpose of AmericaFest 2025?

The event aimed to gather supporters for political organizing and training. It also served to unify the movement after Charlie Kirk’s death and project a vision for its future direction and leadership.

Who were the key speakers at the event?

Major speakers included Ben Shapiro, Donald Trump Jr., Tucker Carlson, and Russell Brand. House Speaker Mike Johnson also spoke, alongside Turning Point USA’s acting leader, Erika Kirk.

What controversial moments happened?

Ben Shapiro openly criticized other conservative media personalities. Later, rapper Nicki Minaj made a verbal slip referring to J.D. Vance as an “assassin,” causing a noticeable reaction from the crowd.

How was Charlie Kirk memorialized?

Kirk’s image and legacy were central themes. A replica of his debate tent was installed, and Speaker Mike Johnson promised to pursue a statue of Kirk for the U.S. Capitol building.

What role did faith play in the conference?

Christian worship and messaging were deeply woven into the event. Slogans like “Make America Christian Again” were present, and segments blended political speech with religious revival.

Trusted Sources: Rolling Stone