A Secret Service agent has been suspended for making inappropriate comments regarding Charlie Kirk.
Kirk was a prominent right-wing activist with divisive viewpoints. He co-founded Turning Point USA, an organization promoting conservative politics at educational institutions across the United States.
During a Turning Point USA Q&A session, Kirk was tragically shot in the neck and later died in the hospital. His death has sparked a wide range of reactions, some of which have led to significant consequences for those involved.
For instance, Matthew Dowd faced termination from MSNBC for his comments on Kirk, who was 31 at the time of his death.
On live TV, Dowd remarked, “He’s been one of the most divisive, especially divisive younger figures in this, who is constantly sort of pushing this sort of hate speech or sort of aimed at certain groups.”
“And I always go back to, hateful thoughts lead to hateful words, which then lead to hateful actions. And I think that is the environment we are in,” he continued.
“You can’t stop with these sort of awful thoughts you have and then saying these awful words and not expect awful actions to take place. And that’s the unfortunate environment we are in.”
Dowd later apologized, stating he never intended to imply Kirk was responsible for the attack.
Now, another individual is facing repercussions for similar comments about the deceased activist.
According to the New York Post, Anthony Pough, a Secret Service employee, wrote on Facebook: “If you are Mourning [sic] this guy .. delete me. He spewed hate and racism on his show.”
“Especially when we should be mourning the innocent children killed in Colorado,” he added.
Pough concluded, “At the end of the day, you answer to GOD and speak things into existence. You can only circumvent karma, she doesnt [sic] leave.”
Pough has since been placed on administrative leave as the agency investigates the matter.
“The US Secret Service will not tolerate any behavior which violates our code of conduct,” a spokesperson told NYP.
President Donald Trump has announced that a suspect is currently in custody.
He mentioned that someone close to the suspect turned them in and expressed his hope for the death penalty if they are found guilty.
Further details are expected to be disclosed during an FBI press conference scheduled for later today.
If you or someone you know has been affected by gun violence, please visit Survivors Empowered for resources and support.