Conspiracy theorists are now ‘transvestigating’ Charlie Kirk and wife Erika

Conservative commentator Charlie Kirk and his widow, Erika, have recently become targets of an online fringe community that fixates on the bodies of public figures and falsely claims they are secretly transgender. This trend, referred to by followers as “transvestigation,” escalated after Kirk’s assassination in Utah last September.

Following Kirk’s death during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University, Erika stepped into a more visible role and was later named the organization’s CEO. As she resumed public appearances, forums dedicated to these conspiracy theories began analyzing her photos and past pageant images, searching for supposed “physical markers.”

A large Facebook group called “Transvestigation Disclosure NOW,” which reportedly has tens of thousands of members, circulated edited images of Erika and made repeated, baseless claims about her identity. Users also scrutinized her family and even her late husband.

Experts say these accusations are part of a long-running pattern targeting prominent women, particularly those in public or political roles. Advocacy groups trace similar claims back years, noting they often blend misogyny, transphobia, and sometimes racist conspiracies.

Some posts extended into broader unfounded narratives, connecting Erika to unrelated conspiracy theories. None of these claims are supported by credible evidence.

Charlie Kirk was a well-known conservative figure, noted for his media presence and campus events. Erika, a former pageant winner and media personality, became increasingly involved in Turning Point USA after their marriage.

Researchers warn that these conspiracy-driven attacks contribute to harmful stereotypes and fuel harassment toward both transgender people and women more broadly, especially as such content continues circulating widely online.