Camilla Jessen
The embrace between Erika Kirk and Vice President JD Vance sparked online speculation.
A hug between Erika Kirk and Vice President JD Vance has stirred online debate. But new insight from a professional lip reader may put the controversy to rest.
The moment happened during an October 29 memorial event at the University of Mississippi.
Erika, the widow of political podcaster Charlie Kirk and the new CEO of Turning Point USA, delivered a tribute to her late husband, who was shot and killed at a political event on September 10.
After her remarks, she introduced Vance, calling him a “dear friend” and saying, “No one will ever replace my husband, but I do see some similarities… in JD.”
Lip reader clears up viral Erika Kirk–JD Vance hug
When Vance approached the stage, the two embraced.
Cameras captured Erika running her hands through his hair, while Vance appeared to place both hands on her waist.
However, lip reader Nicola Hickling told Mirror USA that the conversation between them was anything but intimate.
According to Hickling, Vance told Erika: “I’m proud of you,” to which Erika responded, “It’s not gonna bring him back.”
The speculation has drawn criticism from many who say the moment was clearly one of grief and solidarity, not romance.
Erika later addressed the attention, telling Fox News: “There have been cameras all over me, analysing my every move… We deserve to have cameras in [the courtroom]”, referring to the trial of her husband’s accused killer.
This was reported by People and Newsner.
This article is made and published by Camilla Jessen, who may have used AI in the preparation
