The backlash over comments surrounding the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk is now colliding with a wider debate about free speech, workplace conduct and political polarization.

In the days since Kirk was fatally shot, several private-sector workers including pilots and ground crew at American and Delta airlines have been fired or placed on leave for social media posts that mocked or celebrated the death, the companies confirmed. Schools and universities have also disciplined staff and counselors, citing violations of conduct standards.

Meanwhile, MSNBC fired political analyst Matthew Dowd after he said on-air that Kirk’s rhetoric had contributed to a toxic climate. Dowd defended himself, saying he spoke before learning Kirk had been killed and accused the network of caving

See Full Page