Democratic Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania condemned criticism directed at Erika Kirk, the widow of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, following comments made about her on a podcast, as reported by Fox News.
Fetterman issued the statement on X while responding to a Fox News Digital report highlighting remarks from podcast host Jennifer Welch.
“It’s gross and dehumanizing to attack a widow with young children after just witnessing his public assassination,” Fetterman wrote.
“It shouldn’t be controversial to put our political views aside and extend the grace for a deeply traumatized family to grieve.”
It’s gross and dehumanizing to attack a widow with young children after just witnessing his public assassination.
It shouldn’t be controversial to put our political views aside and extend the grace for a deeply traumatized family to grieve. pic.twitter.com/n7cqaOqbJz — U.S. Senator John Fetterman (@SenFettermanPA) December 9, 2025
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The remarks stem from Welch’s comments on her “I’ve Had It” podcast. In the episode, Welch labeled Erika Kirk a “grifter” and said, “This woman should be kicked to the curb.”
Welch continued, “She is an absolute grifter, just like Donald Trump, and just like her unrepentant, racist, homophobic husband was,” referring to Charlie Kirk.
Jennifer Welch: "[Erika Kirk] is a grifter. Just look at the costume changes. It’s wild. This woman should be kicked to the curb. She is an absolute grifter just like Donald Trump and just like her unrepentant racist homophobic husband was."pic.twitter.com/YdlqrXvCZO
— Defiant L’s (@DefiantLs) December 8, 2025
Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot in September during an event at Utah Valley University. He and Erika Kirk had two children.
Fetterman shared a screenshot of a Fox News Digital headline that read, “Liberal podcaster labels widow Erika Kirk a ‘grifter’ who should be ‘kicked to the curb.’”
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His comments drew responses from political figures, including GOP Rep. Nancy Mace of South Carolina, who is currently running for governor. Mace replied to Fetterman by thanking him for his statement.
Fox News Channel political analyst Gianno Caldwell also responded, expressing full agreement with Fetterman’s condemnation of the remarks made about Erika Kirk.
The exchange comes as public figures across the political spectrum continue responding to reactions surrounding Charlie Kirk’s death and its impact on his family.
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Utah Valley University officials previously confirmed the September shooting occurred during a scheduled event on campus, and authorities identified it as a targeted act.
The comments made on the podcast and the subsequent responses have prompted renewed discussion on political rhetoric and the treatment of the families of public figures following acts of violence.
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