Workers Fired After Online Criticism of Slain Activist Charlie Kirk

In September 2025, Gerald Bourguet was living what he described as his dream life: he and his wife had bought a house with a pool, welcomed a baby boy, and he was writing about professional basketball full-time. That changed after he posted a series of critical comments about conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot on 10 September while speaking at Utah Valley University.

Bourguet's posts described Kirk as an "evil man" who dedicated his life to hateful causes, and criticised Kirk's supporters for not speaking up about school shootings. "I had seen the way that people were talking about this person — kind of eulogising him and lionising him, and it bothered me based on a lot of the things that he had said," Bourguet told the BBC.

Kirk founded Turning Point USA, a Christian youth organisation that promotes conservative values among young people. He was a polarising figure: admired by many on the political right for his ability to make conservative ideas appeal to young audiences, but criticised by opponents for his comments on issues including race, immigration, gun control and gender identity.

Screenshots of Bourguet's posts went viral, leading to his firing. His address was exposed online and he began receiving threatening messages. Concerned for his family's safety, Bourguet fled the state with his wife and four-month-old baby. They returned months later to sell the house and permanently relocated.

A year later, Bourguet says he has no regrets about what he said, but acknowledged: "My life will never be the same."

Why This Matters

The firings highlight the real-world consequences of expressing controversial opinions online, especially in the wake of a high-profile death.
The case raises questions about free speech, employer monitoring of social media, and the boundaries of acceptable public discourse.
The threats and doxxing Bourguet experienced underscore how online conflicts can escalate into physical danger.

Background

Charlie Kirk founded Turning Point USA in 2012, building a large following among conservative youth. He was shot and killed on 10 September 2025 while speaking at Utah Valley University, a crime that remains unresolved. Kirk was a deeply polarising figure — praised by supporters for his outreach work but condemned by critics for statements on race, gender and immigration. His death sparked intense reactions across the political spectrum, with some mourning his loss and others questioning the celebration of his legacy.

Key Perspectives

Gerald Bourguet and others fired: They see their posts as honest expressions of their views, justified given Kirk's controversial record. Bourguet stated he has no regrets despite the severe personal costs. Conservative supporters of Kirk: They view the critical posts as disrespectful to a murdered activist and may support employers who distance themselves from such commentary. Free speech advocates: They argue that while private employers can fire workers, the public shaming and doxxing that followed cross a line, creating a chilling effect on legitimate political expression.

What to Watch

Whether any legal action arises from Bourguet's threats or doxxing.
How employers respond to future controversial posts by employees — whether this case leads to clearer social media policies or heightened caution.
The ongoing investigation into Kirk's killing and any impact it may have on public debate.

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