Two ETSU Faculty Suspended Over Charlie Kirk Social Media Posts

Following the deadly shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, Clemson University suspended a professor immediately due to a controversial social media post. Similarly, East Tennessee State University (ETSU) placed two faculty members, Dr. Andrew Herrmann and Dr. Russell Brown, on administrative leave pending further review after their disparaging social media remarks about Kirk sparked numerous complaints. ETSU emphasized that while personal social media use is protected under the First Amendment and the university does not have policies restricting such expression, it condemns bigotry, harassment, and promotion of violence. State Senator Bobby Harshbarger publicly denounced the posts, calling them "vile and unacceptable" and said such rhetoric has no place in classrooms. ETSU leadership is conducting a full investigation into the matter, responding to pressure from lawmakers, donors, and students. Both universities are navigating the balance between free speech protections and addressing community concerns over the offensive comments related to the assassination of Kirk.