The October 2025 onstage hug at a Turning Point USA event went viral and sparked speculation. Erika defended the moment, saying she was emotional after a tribute video, that her love language is touch, and that she hears echoes of Charlie in Vance. Clips also provoked divorce rumors about Vance and his wife, Usha.
In November 2025 Erika said Turning Point USA would work to support a Vance presidential bid she claims Charlie approved. She later formally endorsed Vance at AmericaFest, misstating the year while pledging to help his possible 2028 campaign.