SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — Erika Kirk, the widow of Charlie Kirk, addressed the nation for the first time since his fatal shooting.

Kirk was the CEO and co-founder of the conservative youth organization Turning Point USA.

He was shot and killed at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, on Wednesday.

Erika spoke behind a picture of Charlie with the words, "May Charlie be received into the merciful arms of Jesus, our loving Savior."

She started by praying and thanked authorities and first responders, as well as President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, "for all their work in these terrible days."

"My heart is with every one of my husband's employees who lost a friend and a mentor," she said.

She spoke next to his podcasting chair, which she said "he loved every day."

According to Erika, Charlie always said he wanted to be remembered for "his courage and for his faith."

"Now and for all eternity, he will stand at his Savior's side, wearing the glorious crown of a martyr," she said.

Erika said Charlie loved his life, America, and nature, which helped bring him closer to God.

"But most of all, Charlie loved his children, and he loved me with all of his heart, and I knew that," she said. "He made sure I knew that every day. ... He was such a good man."

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If Charlie ever ran for office, Erika said his top priority would be "to revive the American family."

"My husband laid down his life for me, for our nation, for our children," she said.

She said that while the world is filled with evil, "Our God is so good."

The evil-doers responsible for my husband's assassination have no idea what they have done," she said. "If you thought that my husband's mission was powerful before, you have no idea, you have no idea what you have unleashed across this entire country and this world. You have no idea the fire you have ignited within this wife. The cries of this widow will echo around the world like a battle cry.

She said she will make sure no one forgets Charlie's name or mission.

The campus tour this fall will continue, with more tours to follow. The radio and podcast show "that he was so proud of" will also go on.

She encouraged young people to find their local Turning Point chapter and get involved.

"If there isn't a chapter, then start one," she said. "There is no excuse."

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