Clemson, South Carolina, September 13, 2025
News Summary
Clemson University is under fire due to posts made by professors endorsing political violence following the assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. Faculty member Robert ‘Robin’ Newberry faced criticism for inflammatory remarks, which prompted calls for disciplinary action from political figures and stakeholders. While the university condemned these remarks, its response has been deemed insufficient, leading to discussions about the influence of faculty on students and the handling of free speech versus community safety. The situation continues to evolve as various political leaders demand accountability.
Clemson, South Carolina is currently experiencing significant public outcry over its handling of faculty members who expressed support for political violence following the assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. A number of professors at Clemson University were noted for making controversial posts on social media that appeared to endorse violence against Kirk, who was recently murdered. The university’s response to these incidents has drawn criticism from various political figures and community members.
Among those who made inflammatory remarks was Robert “Robin” Newberry, an asbestos program manager at Clemson. His posts on social media included derogatory language directed at conservatives, whom he referred to as “Nazis,” and he described Kirk as a “cancer” getting his due “in hell.” In addition, Newberry encouraged young people to emulate individuals who commit acts of political violence. Such rhetoric has heightened concerns about the influence of university faculty on students and public discourse.
Despite the severity of these statements, Clemson University has issued what many consider a tepid response by condemning the endorsement of political violence while still upholding the principle of free speech. The university’s stance states that free speech is protected only when it does not incite harm. This response has not satisfied many stakeholders, prompting calls for disciplinary action against the professors involved.
The backlash has extended to South Carolina’s congressional delegation, with several representatives publicly criticizing the university for its inaction. Republican representatives, including Nancy Mace, Ralph Norman, and William Timmons, have voiced their concerns, with Mace indicating that the issue will continue to garner attention. Norman pointed out that taxpayer dollars are supporting university employees who advocate for political violence, while Timmons characterized the situation as “absolutely disgusting,” urging for the immediate termination of the professors implicated in these remarks.
South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson has also weighed in, requesting answers from Clemson University regarding the professors’ comments. In an escalating response to the situation, the U.S. House Judiciary Committee has mentioned the possibility of defunding the university, while the South Carolina Freedom Caucus has called for a special session to reconsider budget appropriations and address divisive diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs at Clemson.
Additionally, former South Carolina governor and current member of the Clemson Board of Trustees, Nikki Haley, has faced criticism for her silence on the issue, with observers noting the importance of leadership accountability. U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham also made comments suggesting the potential termination of those faculty members who have made inflammatory statements.
In light of the controversy, Clemson University reiterated its commitment to principles of mutual respect, integrity, and safety within its community. The university’s statement included a condemnation of the inappropriate remarks made by faculty, signaling an attempt to balance concerns of freedom of expression with community safety and social responsibility.
Background on the Incident
The incident occurred following the violent assassination of Charlie Kirk, a well-known conservative figure. In the wake of his death, various individuals across social media platforms expressed views that were widely interpreted as glorifying or justifying the act of violence against political opponents. The reaction from Clemson University faculty has prompted broader discussions about the cultural climate within educational institutions and their role in shaping discourse related to political ideologies.
Conclusion
As the situation continues to unfold, the responses from Clemson University and its stakeholders will likely be closely monitored. The intersection of free speech and social responsibility is at the forefront of discussions, raising important questions about the values promoted within academic environments and their implications for the future.
FAQs
What triggered the public outcry at Clemson University?
The public outcry was sparked by posts made by Clemson University professors endorsing political violence following the assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.
What responses have been issued by Clemson University?
Clemson University condemned the endorsement of political violence while expressing support for free speech, stating it only applies when it does not incite harm.
What actions are being called for by political figures in response to this issue?
Various political figures are demanding the termination of professors involved in these incidents, and some have suggested defunding the university as a means of accountability.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Trigger | Social media posts by Clemson professors endorsing political violence. |
| Key Figures | Robert “Robin” Newberry; South Carolina congressional delegation. |
| University’s Response | Condemnation of violence and support for free speech, but insufficient for critics. |
| Political Reactions | Calls for firings, defunding, and budget reevaluation pertaining to DEI programs. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WYFF4: Clemson Professor Social Media Controversy
- MyFox8: Politicians Criticize Clemson Professor Posts
- WSPA: Clemson Professor Criticized for Remarks
- Fox Carolina: AG Called Clemson About Professors’ Comments
- The College Fix: UMich Professor on Violence
- Wikipedia: Freedom of Speech
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Freedom of Speech
- Google Search: Clemson University Political Violence
- Google Scholar: Political Violence in Universities
- Google News: Clemson University Controversy
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