U.S. Vice President JD Vance has said that people who celebrate the death of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk should be held responsible for their actions. Speaking while guest-hosting on The Charlie Kirk Show, Vance urged accountability, saying: “Call them out, and hell, call their employer. We don’t believe in political violence, but we do believe in civility.”
His comments come amid growing controversy over social media posts mocking or celebrating Kirk’s killing. Several professionals—including pilots, teachers, medical workers, and even a Secret Service employee have already faced suspensions or job losses after sharing such remarks online.
Critics argue that these punishments threaten free speech protections, though US companies generally have broad authority to discipline or terminate employees. A recent YouGov poll found that liberal Americans were more likely than conservatives to admit feeling satisfaction at the deaths of political opponents.
Other Republican lawmakers have also called for tough measures. Florida congressman Randy Fine said he would push for employees who celebrate Kirk’s death to face firing and even license revocation. At the same time, South Carolina representative Nancy Mace urged the Department of Education to cut off funding to schools that refuse to act against staff making offensive posts.
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