Conservative commentator Candace Owens has publicly criticised Erika Kirk, the widow of activist Charlie Kirk, after she rejected conspiracy theories surrounding his assassination. In a recent podcast, Owens suggested Erika’s behaviour was suspicious and accused her of exhibiting “Meghan Markle syndrome”, where she allegedly wants privacy or publicity as it suits her.
Charlie Kirk was shot and killed three months ago while speaking at Utah Valley University. Officials have stated that the suspect, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, acted alone. However, Owens has repeatedly, and without evidence, alleged government concealment and possible foreign involvement, claims that Erika Kirk has firmly dismissed.
Erika, CEO of Turning Point USA, told Fox News: “Come after me… call me what you want. But when you go after my family… and you're making hundreds and thousands of dollars every single episode going after the people that I love, because somehow they're in on this? No.” She called the conspiracy theories a “mind virus” and expressed faith in the judicial system.
Owens responded on her podcast, saying Erika’s interview “completely missed the mark” and adding that “none of this is passing the vibe check”. She applauded Tucker Carlson for backing her claims, as Carlson urged the public not to trust the FBI. Social media reactions have been mixed, with law enforcement veteran Deon Joseph saying he never thought he would unfollow Owens, accusing her of exploiting Kirk’s death.
Owens, who was a close friend of Charlie Kirk and had appeared with him in many speaking engagements, has previously promoted baseless conspiracy theories, including one about French President Macron’s wife being transgender, which led to a defamation suit.
