Erika Kirk Defends Viral Hug with VP JD Vance: "My Love Language Is Touch"

In the visuals, Vice President JD Vance appeared to place his hands on Erika Kirk's waist during their encounter.

Erika Kirk, widow of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, has responded firmly to critics questioning her emotional moment with US Vice President JD Vance, suggesting that those criticizing her "probably needed a hug themselves."

During her appearance on The Megyn Kelly Show, the host inquired, "Did you see the people who didn't understand the hug that you and JD had? They went to the weirdest places."

The Turning Point USA CEO responded with laughter and an eye roll, saying, "Oh my gosh, please! Anyone who knows me knows—I hug," and added, "And those hating on a hug probably need a hug themselves. I'll give you a free hug anytime. My love language is touch."

Explaining the interaction, she described, "I'm walking over, he's walking over, I'm starting to cry, he says, 'He's so proud of you,' and I say, 'God bless you,' and I touch the back of his head – something I do with anyone I hug."

"If you've ever hugged me, I've done that," she continued. "If people want to take that out of context, go ahead. To me, that just shows you need a hug more than anyone else."

Kelly then remarked, "They were acting like you touched the back of his arse!" to which Kirk jokingly responded, "Honestly, I feel like I wouldn't get as much hate if I did that."

In a previous Fox News interview, Kirk mentioned that while no one could replace her late husband Charlie, she recognized qualities in JD Vance reminiscent of him. Their emotional hug occurred when she introduced Vance on stage.

The footage showed Vance placing his hands on her waist while she gently ran her fingers through his hair.

Kirk became emotional while viewing a tribute video for Charlie, saying, "Sorry, guys, just give me a second. This is the longest video I've watched of him. Just give me a second."

Charlie Kirk and Erika Kirk were married in 2021 and welcomed their first child, a daughter, in 2022, followed by a son in 2024.