‘Isn’t this DEI?’ Erika Kirk’s U.S. Air Force Academy Board Appointment Draws Public’s Skepticism
Conservative podcaster Charlie Kirk’s wife, Erika Kirk, has been appointed by President Donald Trump as a board member of the U.S. Air Force Academy. Prior to his death, her husband was also appointed by Trump to the same position.
According to the U.S. Air Force Academy’s website, the Board “inquires into the morale, discipline, curriculum, instruction, physical equipment, fiscal affairs, academic methods, and other matters” relating to the academy. The appointed members will essentially have control over institutional policies and how the academy is run.
White House spokesperson Olivia Wales commented on the appointment.
“Charlie Kirk served proudly on the Board, inspiring not only the next generation of servicemembers, but millions around the world with his bold Christian faith, defense of the truth, and deep love of country.”
She adds, “Erika Kirk will continue his legacy, and will be a fearless advocate for the most elite airpower force in the history of the world whose warriors keep our Nation safe, strong, and free.”
Although the nomination has not been formally announced by Trump, the U.S. Air Force Academy website lists Kirk’s name among the appointees chosen by Trump.
People aren’t buying into the nepotism
Kirk, who is the CEO of Turning Point USA, does not have a military background. She also doesn’t have a professional background in education, which would have been beneficial in policy. Being appointed to such a position with no reported experience earned collective criticism from social media and political commentators.
“Isn’t this DEI?” a social media user writes, taking a jab at the Trump administration’s crusade against Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives for minority groups. One year later, there seems to be no problem with appointing a ‘grieving widow’ into a position that requires extensive experience.
“A bullet flying into her husband’s neck doesn’t make her an expert on the Air Force,” said another social media user. Her deceased husband was notably assassinated and was fatally shot in the neck.
“She’s a grieving widow so we have no right to ask what the hell qualifies her to a position advising our Defense Department.” Conservative podcaster Candace Owens tweeted.
“This is all perfectly normal and only people who are DEMONIC would question this appointment,” Owens added. Notably, Owens shared a close friendship with Charlie Kirk before his death. She has since criticized Erika Kirk’s increasing involvement in politics.
In a longer video on YouTube, Owens railed against Erika Kirk’s appointment.
“Her husband died, so now she will be advising the Department of Defense,” Owens remarked. Nevertheless, Owens doesn’t criticize the late Charlie Kirk’s capabilities—even if he, too, did not have a military background. Instead, she defended that he was “military-inclined since high school.”
No experience, no problem
It still doesn’t explain the Trump administration’s criteria for selection. The Kirks are not even at the lowest rung in terms of military rankings. But the odd choice hardly comes as a shock. Even Trump’s DoD secretary pick also came under scrutiny over his capability to lead the Department of Defense.
One year into the second Trump presidency, and a war on Iran has already been waged. It’s a war that may have pushed Iran into viewing nuclear weapons as an essential tool for survival. Needless to say, being a political pundit can’t replace experience—not that it matters when Americans will be the ones footing the bill caused by incompetence.
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