Many were stunned to learn that Erika Kirk’s connection to Donald Trump started years before her marriage. The widow of conservative leader Charlie Kirk, now CEO of Turning Point USA, once crossed paths with Trump through pageantry.

Photos resurfaced online showing Erika competing in the 2012 Miss USA contest, then co-owned by Trump. She had earlier won Miss Arizona USA on her 23rd birthday, earning a spot in the national pageant. One fan noted: “Her talent was dribbling two basketballs — something you don’t see often at pageants.”

At the time, Trump was heavily involved in the Miss Universe Organization, which oversaw Miss USA and Miss Teen USA. Reports even suggested he sometimes hand-picked finalists. Erika also used her pageant platform to support her Christian charity, saying: “What really matters is making a difference. The crown is just a bonus.”

Adding to the intrigue, rumors claim Erika’s father once worked on Trump Tower construction. With her pageant history and family ties, the surprising connections highlight how small the world can truly be.

Do you think Erika’s past with Trump shaped her path today?