Candace Owens flags Erika Kirk's US Air Force Academy board appointment; 'what qualifies her?'
Candace Owens criticized Erika Kirk’s appointment to the United States Air Force Academy Board of Visitors, questioning her qualifications.
The appointment of Charlie Kirk's widow, Erika Kirk, to the US Air Force Academy's Board of Visitors by President Donald Trump has seen a chorus of critics opposing it. On Tuesday, far-right influencer Candace Owens joined them to question "what the he**" qualifies Erika to that position.

On Monday, the White House confirmed Erika Kirk's appointment to the Board of Visitors with a statement. Notably, Charlie Kirk previously served on the 16-member board that makes recommendations to the US Defense Secretary regarding the working of the Air Force Academy. Erika will be taking the position vacated after Charlie Kirk's death.
However, Candace Owens, like many, is not happy with the appointment and is questioning Erika Kirk's qualifications for it.
In an X post on Tuesday, she wrote: “She’s a grieving widow so we have no right to ask what the hell qualifies her to a position advising our Defense Department. This is all perfectly normal and only people who are DEMONIC would question this appointment.”
Laura Loomer Hits Back At Candace Owens
Laura Loomer, a far-right influencer and a staunch Trump ally, replied to Candace Owens' comments, telling her that "not everything is a conspiracy."
Also read: ‘Bride of Charlie’ row: 5 bizarre claims made by Candace Owens in new series on Erika Kirk
"Since everything is a conspiracy to you, let me explain: Before Charlie Kirk was assassinated in September, had been selected by President Trump to serve on the Air Force Academy board last year," Loomer wrote.
"Charlie was appointed. He is now dead, so to honor him, his wife is taking his spot. Not everything is a conspiracy."
White House Statement On Erika Kirk's Appointment
Though initially flagged as a "quiet" appointment by Trump, as no formal announcement was made till long after it was complete, the White House later confirmed it in a statement.
White House spokesperson Olivia Wales said: “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.
“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."
ABOUT THE AUTHORShamik BanerjeeShamik is a journalist covering the United States for Hindustan Times. He has more than four years of experience reporting on US politics, sports, and major breaking stories across fast-moving cycles. He previously worked at Times Now and Sportskeeda, building strong newsroom instincts and digital storytelling skills. At HT.com, he focuses on day-to-day coverage of US political developments while also handling high-impact stories that demand speed, accuracy, clarity, and context under pressure. Shamik has extensive experience covering NFL game days over the past two years, coordinating live updates, analysis, and explainers. He is particularly drawn to large news moments such as US elections and the Super Bowl, where he thrives at the news desk working alongside the team. He holds degrees in Media Studies from Jamia Millia Islamia and English Literature from Jadavpur University. Before entering journalism, he briefly worked in digital marketing and political consultancy roles. Currently a Senior Content Producer at HT Digital, he is driven by curiosity, discipline, and a constant desire to explore new and obscure topics. Outside work, he enjoys reading, films, sports, and learning continuously.Read More

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