WAUSAU, Wis. — Lou Larson, alderperson for Wausau’s 10th District, is facing growing calls to resign after making public comments that many say blamed conservative activist Charlie Kirk for his own assassination. The remarks came amid broader local controversy over public reactions to national political violence.
What Was Said
On a Facebook post following Charlie Kirk’s death, Larson wrote:
“I’m the first to condemn gun violence, Regardless of what side of the fence your on. Yet in Mr Kirk’s case one has to wonder if ‘you get what you play for’”
Critics interpret this as implying that Kirk’s speech or actions made him responsible for his own killing. The comment has drawn sharp condemnation from many in the community who say that — at a minimum — it shows poor judgment for someone in public office.
Related Incident: River District Executive Removed
The controversy follows a similar episode: Callie Wulk, Executive Director of the Wausau River District, was removed from her position after posting on Facebook, sharing an article about Kirk’s death and writing “well deserved” accompanied by clapping emojis.
Wulk later issued an apology, stating that her words were inappropriate and acknowledging the pain caused. The River District Board said her post ran counter to the organization’s values.
Local Reaction & Calls for Accountability
Residents and some local leaders are saying Larson’s remarks are no different in kind from Wulk’s, arguing that both incidents reflect troubling tendencies toward blaming victims of political violence.
A letter to the editor published in Wausau Pilot & Review called for Larson to step down, saying “to blame Charlie Kirk for his own death is repulsive and shows an outrageous lack of judgment or character.”
So far, the Wausau City Council has not issued an official statement in response to Larson’s comments.
Questions Raised
- Responsibility of public officials: What standard should alderpersons or public organization leaders be held to, especially when their words resemble justifications for violence?
- Limits of free speech vs. public trust: While first amendment protections are vital, what are the implications of speech by those in public office that many deem hateful or dangerous?
- Consistency in consequences: Does the community expect the same level of accountability for an elected official as was applied to Callie Wulk?
Current Status & What Could Happen Next
- Larson has not, as of the latest reports, publicly apologized for his remark.
- Community members and opinion writers are calling for his resignation.
- The City Council could issue a censure or adopt an ethical standard. Whether they do so remains to be seen.
Conclusion
What’s unfolding in Wausau is more than a local flap — it’s part of a national reckoning over when speech becomes sanctionable, how public figures should act in moments of tragedy, and what “accountability” looks like in political and civic life. As many in the community ask: words have consequences, and so do those who use them — especially when in power.
