Vice President JD Vance has rallied conservative supporters at the Turning Point USA AmericaFest convention, closing the final day of the event with strong messaging centred on Christianity, nationalism, and the “America First” movement.
Eko Hot News reports that Vance delivered his remarks on Sunday, marking a major highlight of the annual gathering, which this year held special significance following the death of Turning Point USA founder, Charlie Kirk.
The convention, which began on Thursday, was the first without Kirk’s presence. Throughout his speech, Vance repeatedly referenced the late conservative activist, describing him as a unifying voice who believed deeply in grassroots participation and free expression.
Vance opened his address by thanking Erika Kirk, Charlie Kirk’s widow and the new Chief Executive Officer of Turning Point USA, for her leadership and support. Although Erika Kirk had earlier endorsed Vance for a 2028 presidential run, he did not directly address the endorsement during his speech.
“I cannot thank you enough for your strength, your grace, and your kind words of support,” Vance said, praising Erika Kirk for carrying forward her late husband’s legacy.
The Vice President urged attendees to honour Charlie Kirk by continuing the mission he championed while alive, stressing unity and active engagement within the conservative movement.
During his remarks, Vance also hinted at a tougher approach to governance, referencing plans for increased prosecutions and judicial reforms. He stated that he and President Donald Trump have identified judges and prosecutors they believe would deliver faster and stricter justice.
He criticised existing Senate procedures, arguing that bureaucratic rules have slowed efforts to implement conservative policy priorities.
Vance launched sharp attacks on Democratic leaders, including California Governor Gavin Newsom and Representative Ilhan Omar, accusing them of weakening America’s economy, security, and global influence.
In a campaign-style conclusion, Vance promised closed borders, safer communities, and political victory for supporters aligned with the America First agenda.
“Only God can promise salvation in heaven,” he said, “but together we can fulfil the promise of the greatest nation on Earth.”
Other prominent figures who addressed the convention included Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, White House Border Czar Tom Homan, and Donald Trump Jr., all of whom paid tribute to Charlie Kirk.
President Donald Trump also made brief remarks via a phone call during the event, while entertainer Nicki Minaj appeared on stage alongside Erika Kirk, drawing attention from attendees.
The AmericaFest convention ended with renewed calls for conservative unity ahead of upcoming elections, as Vance emerged as a central figure in the movement’s future direction.
