Conservative commentator Candace Owens has launched a fresh public critique against Turning Point USA (TPUSA), just days after holding a lengthy private meeting with the organization's new leader, Erika Kirk. The clash highlights a deep-seated rift over the group's direction and public image.
Public Criticism After Private Talks
On December 22, 2025, Owens took to social media platform X to voice strong disapproval of TPUSA's recent flagship event, America Fest. The four-day gathering began on December 19, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona. Owens explicitly endorsed comedian Tim Dillon's characterization of the event as a "bad reality show," adding her own sharp analysis.
She stated that the organization now feels disconnected from everyday Americans. "It was out of touch and elite," Owens wrote. She further argued, "It is not and will never be relatable for blue collar workers to endure lectures from wealthy people telling them who is and is not evil."
Controversy Over Charlie Kirk Tribute Tent
The core of Owens' latest criticism revolves around a specific display at America Fest: a full-scale replica of the tent under which TPUSA founder Charlie Kirk was killed. The tragic incident occurred on September 10, 2025, while Kirk was speaking at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. The original tent was part of his famous "Prove Me Wrong" campus tour.
Owens questioned the taste and intent behind recreating the structure, posting, "Recreating the tent Charlie died under for selfies? Seriously?" This sparked immediate pushback from TPUSA supporters online, who defended the display as an honor to Kirk's mission, not his death. Conservative commentator Karen Hamilton said it symbolized Kirk's goal to "challenge error with truth" on college campuses.
A 'Productive' Meeting That Didn't Resolve Core Issues
This public dispute is particularly notable because it follows a long, private meeting between Candace Owens and Erika Kirk on December 15, 2025. The discussion lasted over four hours and was described by both parties as "honest" and "productive." Prior to the meeting, Erika Kirk had requested a pause in public commentary from both sides.
Afterwards, Owens acknowledged that "Absolutely nothing was held back" and that they agreed on more points than she anticipated. However, her subsequent comments make it clear that while personal tensions may have eased, her fundamental disagreements with TPUSA's operational style and strategic choices remain unchanged. As of late December 2025, Erika Kirk has not publicly responded to Owens' latest remarks.
The situation underscores an ongoing internal debate within conservative circles about outreach, tone, and strategy. Owens' vocal stance positions her as a critic from within the broader movement, challenging what she perceives as a growing disconnect between conservative organizations and their base.
