The U.S. Secret Service has placed an employee on immediate administrative leave following social media posts that criticized Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk after his death. A spokesperson stated the agency “will not tolerate behavior that violates our code of conduct,” confirming an investigation is underway.
Anthony Pough, a Secret Service agent, posted inflammatory comments on Facebook, writing, “If you are Mourning [sic] this guy .. delete me. He spewed hate and racism on his show.” Another source within the agency told Real Clear Politics that the post was “dangerous to have around,” citing concerns about an employee’s moral integrity while protecting others’ rights.
Pough’s remarks included accusations of “karma” for Kirk’s assassination, stating, “At the end of the day, you answer to GOD and speak things into existence. You can only circumvent karma, she doesnt [sic] leave.” The agent, described as being in “Phase 2” of his career, had not been assigned to protect former President Donald Trump but could be called upon for presidential coverage.
Secret Service Director Sean Curran addressed staff in a memo emphasizing strict conduct standards, stating, “We must operate every day without bias towards political affiliation. Any distractions, otherwise, will not be tolerated.” The agency reiterated its commitment to maintaining trust and avoiding actions that compromise its mission.