In a swift and decisive action that has sent ripples through political and academic circles, Texas State University has expelled a student following a disturbing re-enactment of the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk during a campus memorial event. The incident, captured on video and shared widely across social media, prompted immediate condemnation from state officials and underscored the growing tensions surrounding political rhetoric and its impact on university campuses in Texas.
The Incident on Campus
The controversy unfolded on Monday, September 15, 2025, during a memorial gathering for Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, hosted by the university’s local chapter. According to multiple reports, a male student, whose identity has not been released, allegedly mocked Kirk’s death by mimicking the moment he was shot in the neck. Witnesses and video footage indicate the student performed the re-enactment near a campus statue, reportedly shouting profanities and imitating Kirk falling to the ground. Some accounts also suggest the student’s actions were accompanied by spitting near attendees and using a vape pen, which may have violated university policy. The act was met with visible reactions from those present, with one individual overheard warning the student he would be expelled.
University’s Immediate Response
Texas State University President Dr. Kelly Damphousse moved quickly to address the situation. Upon being made aware of the disturbing video, Damphousse stated that the university had initiated an immediate investigation to identify the individual involved. By Tuesday evening, the university confirmed that the student had been identified and was no longer enrolled at Texas State. “I will not tolerate behavior that mocks, trivializes, or promotes violence on our campuses. It is antithetical to our TXST values,” Damphousse stated in a public message. He emphasized that while the university takes such matters seriously, federal privacy laws prevent them from disclosing further details about individual student conduct. The university’s leadership also sought to contextualize the event, stressing that the actions of one individual do not reflect the entire campus community.
Governor Abbott Demands Accountability
The incident quickly escalated into a significant political issue, drawing a strong rebuke from Texas Governor Greg Abbott. Abbott reshared the video on X, formerly Twitter, directly calling on Texas State University to expel the student. “Hey Texas State. This conduct is not accepted at our schools,” Abbott posted. “Expel this student immediately. Mocking assassination must have consequences.” The governor’s firm stance echoed his earlier actions following Kirk’s death, when he ordered flags at state buildings to be lowered in mourning and previously condemned similar behavior at other Texas institutions.
Broader Context: Campus Speech and Political Division
This event in Texas is part of a larger, ongoing national conversation about the limits of free speech on college campuses, particularly in the current polarized political climate. The killing of Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative figure, on September 10, 2025, while he was speaking at Utah Valley University, had already sparked widespread debate and mourning, alongside instances of both condemnation and, in some circles, apparent celebration. The Texas State incident is not isolated; shortly before, a student at Texas Tech University was arrested and subsequently expelled for making derogatory statements and mocking Kirk’s death during a campus vigil. These occurrences have led to concerns among some free speech advocates about an over-policing of public discourse, while others argue that such actions cross the line from protected speech into harassment and the promotion of violence.
Texas State University has policies governing expressive activities, which uphold First Amendment rights but also prohibit conduct that is unlawful, constitutes harassment, or materially disrupts the functioning of the institution. The university’s updated free speech policy, enacted in compliance with a state mandate, also addresses antisemitic speech. However, the interpretation and enforcement of these policies in politically charged situations continue to be a subject of scrutiny and discussion among students and faculty alike.
Charlie Kirk’s Influence and Legacy
Charlie Kirk, 31, was a significant figure in conservative activism, known for his role as CEO and co-founder of Turning Point USA, an organization dedicated to mobilizing young conservatives. His death, attributed to a shooting during one of his speaking engagements, was mourned by many, including national political figures. The subsequent events on college campuses highlight the deep divisions and strong emotions his public persona and political stances evoked.
The expulsion of the Texas State student serves as a stark reminder of the consequences that can arise from actions perceived as disrespectful or inflammatory, particularly in the sensitive environment of higher education. As this news continues to generate buzz, it underscores the challenges universities face in balancing freedom of expression with the need to maintain a safe and respectful campus community.
