Donald Trump has appointed Erika Kirk, the widow of murdered rightwing activist Charlie Kirk, to the US Air Force Academy's board of visitors. The 37-year-old replaces her husband on the 16-member panel, which oversees morale, discipline, curriculum, and other matters at the Colorado Springs military training facility.
Charlie Kirk was shot and killed in September during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University. He had been appointed by Trump to the board a year earlier and served until his death. There was no official announcement of his widow's elevation, but her name has been added to the list of members as one of Trump's five current appointees.
Other Trump appointees include Republican Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville and Dina Powell, former deputy national security adviser. The board also includes several members of Congress from both parties, as well as Senators Kevin Cramer and Markwayne Mullin, appointed by Senate Majority Leader John Thune.
White House spokesperson Olivia Wales said Erika Kirk was a 'perfect choice' to succeed her husband, praising Charlie Kirk's service and Christian faith. Since her husband's murder, Kirk has remained active as chair and CEO of Turning Point USA, the conservative group he founded.
