At the opening night of AmericaFest, the annual conference hosted by Turning Point USA, the organization’s newly appointed CEO addressed a packed audience at the Phoenix Convention Center. During her speech, she expressed support for JD Vance in a potential 2028 presidential race. The comment drew enthusiastic applause, though Vice President Vance has not announced any plans to run. The remarks follow recent leadership changes within Turning Point USA and signal the group’s political direction moving forward.

Since assuming her role earlier this year, the CEO has maintained a strong public presence, regularly speaking at events and engaging supporters nationwide. She has emphasized continuity in leadership, stressing the mission and values that helped build the organization. At AmericaFest, she also called for unity and long-term political engagement. Observers noted that her comments aligned with earlier indications that the organization may back Vance should he enter the race, though no official endorsement has been formalized.

Online discussion surrounding the speech intensified after footage from a past October event honoring the late Charlie Kirk resurfaced. The clips sparked debate, with some viewers reading emotional significance into brief moments, while others urged caution against speculation. The CEO later addressed the renewed attention, stating that the circulating clips lacked proper context and warning against drawing conclusions from isolated public interactions.

Additional commentary from political figures added fuel to the discussion. Candace Owens criticized the CEO’s response to media attention, prompting further debate. In response, the CEO reiterated her confidence in official investigations and said speculation often distracts from the organization’s work. She emphasized that criticism is part of public life, but her focus remains on leadership and advancing Turning Point USA’s mission as AmericaFest continues.