Just a month after conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s tragic death, his widow, Erika Kirk, faces criticism for “moving on too fast.” Charlie was shot at a Utah university on September 10, sparking a massive manhunt that ended in the arrest of 22-year-old Tyler Robinson.

At his memorial, Erika shared tearful memories, but her recent smiles drew backlash. Responding online, she wrote, “There’s no blueprint for grief… Love doesn’t ask to be healed. Love asks to be remembered.” Erika said her joy reflects gratitude, not denial: “I carry my Charlie in every breath.” Now the new CEO of Turning Point USA, she honors him by embracing both laughter and tears — showing that love and strength can coexist in loss.