Some people have taken to social media to celebrate Charlie Kirk’s death. Instead of expressing condolences, many mocked or applauded the tragedy.
The celebrations have drawn widespread outrage from conservatives who pointed out that, while such speech may be reprehensible, it remains protected under the First Amendment.
The debate intensified after Attorney General Pam Bondi made controversial remarks on a Monday podcast, stating that the Justice Department would “absolutely target you, go after you, if you are targeting anyone with hate speech.”
Bondi’s comments drew immediate criticism from conservative commentators, many of whom warned about the dangers of allowing the government to police speech.
Her statement was met with backlash across the right, with critics calling for her immediate removal.
Prominent conservative voices argued that the term “hate speech” is vague and dangerous when weaponized by the government, especially under future administrations.
They warned that such precedent could be used to silence political dissent and punish speech that is unpopular but constitutionally protected.
Daily Wire host Matt Walsh was among those who sharply criticized Bondi’s comments.
Walsh noted that the free market and social pressure had already produced consequences for individuals who publicly celebrated Kirk’s death, including professors and public