Donald Trump faced backlash following an encounter with Erika Kirk in the Oval Office.
Erika, who took on the role of Turning Point CEO after her husband Charlie Kirk was tragically assassinated in September, was present at the White House for a significant ceremony on Monday, November 11.
The occasion was the swearing-in of a family friend, Sergio Gor, as the new ambassador for India, with Trump officiating.
Reports indicate that the event was heavily attended, and President Trump even invited Erika to say a few words.
In her speech to Gor, she expressed: “Charlie loved you. He would have been the first phone call when he found out if you were going to be taking this position.
“The way that I was able to witness the two of you work together for years and to champion and support the president was absolutely humbling to witness, and I am so proud of you and Charlie is going to be with you every single day in spirit.
“I will be praying for you every day because I know that this is just the beginning of an incredible opportunity for you.”
Nevertheless, a brief incident during the event stirred criticism towards Trump.
He inquired about Erika’s whereabouts and then gave her a kiss on the cheek, accompanying it with a half-hug.
While the moment might not seem particularly controversial, it drew criticism from some social media users.
Regarding the kiss, one user on X remarked: “Nasty gross old a** man.”
Another commented sarcastically: “I LOVE it when my boss kisses me. Especially on tv and in front of everyone. Fun!”
A third individual questioned: “Why is she even there? Disgusting and gross.”
Additional comments addressed Erika’s increased visibility recently.
One person noted: “No hater s*** but why do they keeping her round so much? Her late husband wasn’t even an elected official so what’s da point of dis exactly?”
Despite the criticism, some people viewed the gesture as a genuine show of affection by the president.
One individual stated: “Trump actually seems like a really affectionate and loving person. I don’t know if that’s just in recent times, or if it’s because the mainstream media have only ever portrayed him as a grump.”
Another remarked: “Just a fatherly mild peck on the cheek. That’s it. Nothing more to see here folks.”
And someone else simply added: “How sweet!”