Overview

• The author describes a nationwide wave of firings and suspensions tied to social media commentary about Charlie Kirk’s death.
• He argues public-university employees’ posts are often protected under Rankin v. McPherson and the Pickering balancing framework.
• The piece contends institutions are reacting to organized pressure and doxing campaigns led by conservative activists and politicians.
• He warns of a chilling effect on academic freedom as administrators make hasty decisions based on online outrage.
• The author predicts many terminations will be overturned through litigation that could impose significant costs on universities, noting he advises a Turning Point USA chapter despite ideological differences.