A leaked video from AmFest 2026, Turning Point USA’s flagship conservative conference, is setting off a fierce political and cultural backlash. The footage, which surfaced online and quickly spread across social media, allegedly captures conversations suggesting that Charlie Kirk’s assassination was part of a divine plan to elevate his widow, Erika Kirk, into a new era of leadership. The clip has triggered outrage, debate, and intense scrutiny of how the organization is framing the tragic death of its co-founder.
Charlie Kirk was fatally shot on September 10, 2025, while speaking at a campus event at Utah Valley University. Authorities charged 22-year-old Tyler James Robinson with aggravated murder and other violent offenses, and prosecutors are reportedly seeking the death penalty. The killing shocked supporters and critics alike, reigniting national conversations about political violence. Just days later, Erika Kirk—former Miss Arizona USA and longtime partner in her husband’s political efforts—was appointed CEO of Turning Point USA by the organization’s board.
Since stepping into the role, Erika Kirk has remained highly visible, defending her husband’s legacy while forcefully rejecting conspiracy theories tied to his death. She has described online speculation as toxic and harmful, urging supporters to focus on justice and the future of the movement. But the newly leaked AmFest footage has complicated that narrative. Political commentators claim portions of the video suggest that some insiders framed the assassination as “God’s plan,” language that critics argue crosses a moral line.
The controversy deepened after the footage aired on The Jimmy Dore Show’s YouTube channel, where it was dissected and debated. This isn’t the first internal leak to rock the organization. Earlier this year, audio from a Zoom call circulated online showing Erika Kirk praising staff for organizing a large-scale memorial event and merchandise rollout shortly after her husband’s death. Critics described the tone as surprisingly upbeat, while supporters countered that it reflected resilience and operational strength during a devastating period.
AmFest 2026, held in Phoenix, was already under the microscope as the first major gathering since the assassination. The event featured high-profile conservative figures including Tucker Carlson and Ben Shapiro, and reports suggest tensions simmered behind the scenes over the movement’s direction. Former allies like Candace Owens have openly criticized Erika Kirk’s leadership, accusing the organization of mismanagement—claims TPUSA has strongly denied.
As the leaked footage continues to circulate, the fallout underscores just how sensitive conversations around faith, martyrdom, and succession can be inside political movements. For some supporters, Erika Kirk represents continuity and strength after tragedy. For critics, the language reportedly used in the video raises troubling questions about narrative, messaging, and the line between devotion and exploitation.
