WASHINGTON (TNND) — Secretary of War Pete Hegseth warned that his department is “tracking” all civilian and military employees’ comments that celebrate or mock the assassination of political activist Charlie Kirk.
“We are tracking all these very closely – and will address, immediately. Completely unacceptable,” Hegseth wrote on social media in response to a statement from Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell.
Parnell stated it is “unacceptable for military personnel and Department of War civilians to celebrate or mock the assassination of a fellow American. The Department of War has zero tolerance for it.”
Kirk was shot in the neck on Wednesday in what police called a “targeted attack” as he allegedly discussed transgender shooters with a crowd at Utah Valley University in Orem. He co-founded the conservative youth organization Turning Point USA and was a close ally of President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance.
Tyler Robinson, 22, was identified as the suspected shooter after a 33-hour manhunt, officials said on Friday.
Additionally, Navy Secretary John Phelan cautioned sailors, Marines and civilian employees that they will be “dealt with swiftly and decisively” if they act in a “manner that brings discredit upon the Department.”
The Coast Guard also chimed in and said it “is aware of inappropriate personal social media activity made by a member regarding recent political violence.”
“That social media activity is contrary to our core values. With the support of DHS, we are actively investigating this activity and will take appropriate action to hold the individual accountable,” the post on X read. “We recognize the harm such behavior can cause and remain steadfast in ensuring that the conduct of our personnel reflects the trust and responsibility placed in us by the American people.”
The State Department on Thursday suggested revoking the visas of people who comment in certain ways on conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s death.
Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau wrote in a post on social media platform X that he has directed consular officials to take “appropriate action” against users who praise, make light of or rationalize Kirk’s killing.