University of South Dakota professor Phillip Hook will retain his position after facing termination over a social media post about conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot during a campus event in Utah on Sept. 10.
Hook’s post, which called Kirk a “hate-spreading Nazi” and dismissed sympathy for his death, sparked backlash from state leaders including Gov. Larry Rhoden and House Speaker Jon Hansen. Hook deleted the post within hours and issued an apology.
USD President Sheila Gestring announced in an Oct. 3 letter that the university, in consultation with the Board of Regents, would withdraw its intent to fire Hook, citing his remorse, service record, and the university’s operational interests.
Hook had filed a lawsuit after being placed on administrative leave, and a federal judge granted a temporary restraining order requiring his reinstatement. His attorney, Jim Leach, called the outcome “a good day for the First Amendment.”
Gestring emphasized the importance of free speech but reminded faculty of their responsibility to maintain respect and clarity when expressing personal views.
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