Erika Kirk Calls Anti-ICE Protesters 'Demonic,' Accusing Them of Destroying the American Nation

Erika Kirk is facing a new controversy after she called anti-ICE protesters 'demonic' on 21 January 2026 during the opening night of her new national tour.

The Turning Point USA chief executive made the remarks at Harvest Church in Riverside, California, as she launched the faith-based 'Make Heaven Crowded' tour.

Her comments came amid escalating demonstrations against Immigration and Customs Enforcement across the US, many of which have drawn national attention. Kirk's words, delivered from the church stage, spread quickly online and triggered strong reactions from supporters and critics alike.

The moment added another chapter to her rapid rise as a prominent public figure following the death of her husband, conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Kirk Calls Anti-Protesters 'Demonic'

Speaking to a packed congregation, Kirk addressed the ongoing protests against ICE enforcement operations. In the video shared by Patriot Takes, she told the audience she had been following recent media coverage, including a televised exchange involving MSNBC host Rachel Maddow and comedian Jimmy Kimmel.

Kirk acknowledged a theory raised during that discussion, known as the '3.5% rule,' which suggests that a small but committed group can drive political change through sustained protest.

She rejected the idea that the current demonstrations were having a positive impact. 'Personally, I do not think they're helping. I think it's demonic,' Kirk said, before adding that she understood the sentiment behind the argument.

She went on to contrast the protests with what she described as faith-led action, arguing that the demonstrations represented an approach that could harm, rather than heal, the country.

According to Kirk, the movement reflected 'what they think can change this nation but actually destroy it.'

Kirk Follows Other Christian Leaders Criticising the Protests

Kirk's remarks echoed criticism already voiced by several Christian leaders in recent days. The comments followed an incident on 18 January 2026, when anti-ICE protesters disrupted a church service at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota. Demonstrators entered the building during worship, confronting congregants and prompting condemnation from religious figures and government officials.

Paula White, a senior adviser to the White House Faith Office, denounced the disruption and called for arrests, citing concerns over religious liberty. Pastor Paul Chappell also urged the Department of Justice to take action, stressing the need to uphold the law. Albert Mohler, president of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, described the incident as 'unspeakably evil' and called for swift enforcement.

The Department of Justice later confirmed it had opened a civil rights investigation. Attorney General Pam Bondi said federal authorities would respond firmly to intimidation targeting churches and law enforcement.

These developments formed the backdrop to Kirk's speech, reinforcing a broader narrative among some faith leaders that the protests had crossed a line.

'Demonic' Remark Sparks Criticisms

Reaction to Kirk's comments was immediate and intense on social media. Critics accused her of inflaming divisions and misusing religious language to attack political dissent. Several users questioned her moral authority, while others criticised her leadership of Turning Point USA and the direction of her tour.

Some posts challenged her interpretation of Christianity, while others accused her of exploiting her late husband's legacy for influence. Questions were also raised about civil liberties, with critics asking whether peaceful protest was being unfairly portrayed as a threat to the nation.

The backlash highlighted the polarising effect of Kirk's remarks as she continues to step into a more visible role on the national stage.