RM JD Vance Emphasizes the Role of Christian Values in America’s Future at TPUSA Tribute to Charlie Kirk
Vice President JD Vance spoke at length during a large Turning Point USA gathering at the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) held in memory of Charlie Kirk, where he reflected on the late conservative activist’s influence on his faith and argued that “a properly grounded Christian moral order” is essential to the nation’s future.
Following remarks from Erika Kirk, Charlie’s widow, Vance took the stage for a short address before answering audience questions on a wide range of topics — from immigration and National Guard deployments to the Second Amendment. However, many questions centered on his faith and how it shapes his approach to governance. Students also asked about his stance on religious liberty and what it’s like to raise children in a dual-faith household, as Vance’s wife, Usha, is Hindu.
“I make no apologies for believing that Christian values form an important foundation of this country,” Vance said when responding to a question about the separation of church and state. “Anyone who tells you their view is ‘neutral’ probably has an agenda. I’m at least upfront about believing that the Christian roots of this country are a good thing.”
During the Wednesday evening event, Vance also criticized aspects of modern liberalism, describing it as a “distorted version of Christianity.”
“There’s nothing inherently wrong with focusing on the disenfranchised — that’s one of liberalism’s stated goals,” Vance explained. “But when you remove that focus from religious duty or civic virtue, it can lead to moral confusion — even lawlessness. Compassion for the wrongdoer must be balanced by justice. That’s why a Christian moral framework is so crucial for America’s future.”
He further argued that faith should not be driven out of the public square, saying that the Founding Fathers never intended that outcome.
“Anyone claiming the Constitution requires that is simply not telling the truth,” Vance asserted. “The Supreme Court’s interpretation of ‘Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion’ ended up excluding the church from public life at every level of government. That was a terrible mistake, and we’re still feeling its effects today.”
Vance was also asked about life in an interfaith marriage. He noted that when he and Usha met, he wasn’t yet a Christian, but over time, they decided to raise their children in the Christian faith.
“Most Sundays, she joins me at church,” he said. “And yes, I do hope that one day she’ll be moved by the same faith that changed me — because I truly believe in the Christian gospel. But God grants everyone free will, so if she never does, that’s between her and God, and it doesn’t create conflict in our home.”
Reflecting on Charlie Kirk’s influence, Vance said that Kirk played a role in encouraging him to be more open about his faith.
“Charlie inspired me in that way,” Vance shared. “I grew up in a time when people often kept their faith private, even if it was deeply held. But the reason I strive to be a good husband, a good father, and a good servant to my country is because I believe God placed me here for a short time to do as much good as I can — for Him and for America. That’s how my faith guides everything I do.”
Posters and tributes honoring Charlie Kirk filled the venue as Vance concluded his remarks, emphasizing that faith, family, and purpose remain central to his life and leadership.
