Erika Kirk won’t seek the death penalty for her husband’s killer, choosing forgiveness over revenge.

Erika Kirk, widow of slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk, has said she will not seek the death penalty for the man accused of killing her husband, emphasizing her decision stems from faith, a desire for peace, and a commitment to forgiveness. In a New York Times interview ahead of her husband’s September 21, 2025, funeral, she stated she does not want the killer’s death on her conscience, rejecting an eye-for-an-eye approach. She stressed that the legal system, not personal grief, should determine the outcome, focusing instead on healing and honoring her husband’s legacy. The case, involving the Sept. 10 shooting at Utah Valley University during a Turning Point USA event, has drawn national attention.