The recent killing of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk has ignited a coordinated online doxxing campaign aimed at individuals who have publicly criticized him. This dangerous development sets a precedent of going after professors, instructors, public defenders, and other public workers for their criticism of Kirk. He was infamous for his spits opinions and life as a firebrand right wing politics.
In this new space, one figure on the right has emerged to fill the void—Chaya Raichik, aka Libs of TikTok. She drives the campaign from her social media account @ExposeCharliesMurderers. The account names 41 of them for “advocating for political violence virtual.” It has a backlog of more than 20,000 submissions that it is already working through. All told, this alarming and patently absurd development is very worrisome. It’s a dangerous erosion of free speech and puts in danger anyone who speaks out against their decision.
Background on Charlie Kirk and His Legacy
Charlie Kurtis the founder of the conservative youth organization Turning Point USATurnin point USA. He’s an aggressive advocate for gun rights and often takes the other side on popular issues. This year, he raised a few eyebrows with this inflammatory remark. He argued that the cost of over 30,000 gun deaths per year is an acceptable price to pay to defend the Second Amendment. This perspective was roundly and rightly criticized even before his tragic death, which has continued to saber-rattle and inflame public opinion.
Following his killing, Kirk’s widow vowed to uphold his legacy, stating her commitment to continue advocating for the values he championed. The political right’s response has been more favorable though a bit of a mixed bag. Some prominent figures are calling for revenge on his killers, while others are warning not to retaliate against media adversaries.
The Doxxing Campaign Takes Shape
This internet-sponsored doxxing campaign has led to severe consequences for anyone who has ever spoken out against Kirk. So far, reports indicate that at least 15 people have either been fired or suspended. In fact, their comments around his death are what prompted these actions. A now-former junior employee at Nasdaq was recently fired after posting something awful. In the meantime, one Coast Guard employee is subject of an internal investigation after posting a meme that expressed lack of concern over Kirk’s death.
Laura Loomer, a conspiracy theorist and ally of former President Trump, has been notably vocal in encouraging these digital campaigns. She sent a blunt message to naysayers. “Get ready to have your whole professional life destroyed if you’re filth enough to cheer his passing,” she announced. This rhetoric is right in step with the bullying tactics used by far-right organizations in the wake of Kirk’s murder.
The campaign has ignited opposition from across the creative industries. While condemning Kirk’s death, union leaders expressed outrage over attempts to punish educators simply for speaking their minds. They highlighted the need to safeguard people’s rights to protest and share dissenting views without fear of retaliation.
Reactions and Criticism of Political Figures
The political environment related to Charlie Kirk’s killing is still highly charged today. Utah’s governor, Spencer Cox, was roundly condemned for his statements in defense of the killer of Kirk’s murder. As a result, many felt that his comments undermined the deadly seriousness of the crisis. The things that some of Kirk’s supporters are calling for indicate we might be right. They have proposed extreme actions such as mass deportation and removal from social media sites.
In the aftermath of these developments, some other far-right actors have begun to pick up on the calls for hostility. They go after anyone who speaks out against Kirk. An assistant dean at Middle Tennessee State University remarked, “Looks like ol’Charlie spoke his fate into existence. Hate begets hate. ZERO sympathy,” reflecting the divisive sentiments that have emerged in discussions about freedom of speech and accountability.
In addition, statements from people such as Congressman Clay Higgins reflect the sensitive nature of Kirk’s legacy. He continued, saying critics “flapped their lips with their smart**s indignancy, rejoicing in the despicable murder of that lovely young white boy.” This exemplifies the highly charged, polarized climate that now characterizes these events.
