News Summary
Bridget Sullivan, a former Wake Forest University athletic trainer, is suing Rep. Pat Harrigan for libel over his claims regarding her termination after a social media post about conservative commentator Charlie Kirk’s death. The lawsuit seeks $75,000 in damages, citing emotional distress and false representation. Harrigan’s comments led to significant backlash against Sullivan and increased threats, which have prompted police protection on campus. The case brings to light broader issues surrounding free speech and the targeting of university employees by conservative activists.
Rep. Pat Harrigan Faces Libel Lawsuit Over Controversial Comments
In a drama-filled turn of events, former Wake Forest University athletic trainer, Bridget Sullivan, is taking Rep. Pat Harrigan (R-N.C.) to court. The lawsuit seeks $75,000 in damages, with Sullivan alleging that Harrigan made some serious false claims about her job termination following her social media activity related to a tragic incident involving conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.
The Backstory: A Social Media Post Triggers a Firestorm
It all began on September 11, when Sullivan posted a message on her social media account that included lyrics from a song, stating, “He had it coming, he had it coming,” just one day after Kirk was fatally shot. Along with that, she added a brief note saying, “this audio is all I have to say about that.” It was a comment that, perhaps predictably, caught the eye—and ire—of Harrigan.
Harrigan’s Reaction: Calling for Sullivan’s Firing
Following her post, Harrigan wasted no time in responding. On September 12, he called for Sullivan’s termination, declaring that celebrating Kirk’s assassination was simply unacceptable. He reached out to Wake Forest University, urging them to act on the matter. Soon enough, the social media landscape began to buzz with Harrigan’s own declaration on September 16, in which he claimed that Sullivan had indeed been fired. This tweet quickly gained traction, racking up over 23,000 likes and a staggering 874,000 views.
Consequences of the Comments
The fallout from Harrigan’s comments was immediate and severe. Both Sullivan and the university found themselves in a tumultuous situation. Following the controversy, Sullivan and the campus community faced a wave of threatening and derogatory comments, ultimately leading to increased police protection on campus.
Sullivan’s Side: Mutual Separation Claimed
Contrary to Harrigan’s statement, Sullivan contends that her separation from the university was mutual. She insists that it was an agreement that it was in both parties’ best interests to part ways, emphasizing that she was not officially fired by Wake Forest. This point is critical to the lawsuit, as Sullivan argues Harrigan’s assertion was a **false representation of fact**, which has seriously harmed her personal and professional reputation.
The Lawsuit: Seeking Justice
Now, Sullivan’s lawsuit lays bare the emotional toll and damage incurred due to Harrigan’s accusations. It seeks damages not just for harm to her reputation but also for emotional distress and the multitude of other negative impacts on her life that stemmed from this backlash. The court documents paint a vivid picture of the chaos that ensued, with Sullivan facing public ridicule and safety threats after Harrigan’s social media blast.
The Bigger Picture: Targeting University Employees
This entire saga comes against the backdrop of a broader trend where conservative activists are increasingly targeting comments made by university employees. The tragic events surrounding Charlie Kirk’s death have raised more than a few eyebrows and intensified the discourse surrounding free speech on campus.
Where We Stand Now
As of now, Harrigan’s office has not responded to any media requests regarding the lawsuit, leaving many to wonder how this legal face-off will unfold. With emotions high and stakes even higher, it’s a situation that is sure to capture attention as it progresses.
Stay tuned as we monitor the developments of this case that blends politics, social media, and the right to free expression in our universities and communities.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- NC Newsline: Former Wake Forest Trainer Sues NC Congressman for Libel
- Charlotte Observer: Local Crime News
- News Observer: Politics & Government News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Libel
- WBTV: Mark Robinson Sues CNN
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
