Volunteer Radio Host Resigns After Inciting Violence Against Vice President Vance
A volunteer radio show host at the University of Massachusetts Lowell has resigned following the emergence of a violent post on the social media platform Bluesky, where the individual advocated for the assassination of Vice President JD Vance. Prompted by a comment regarding Vance’s political stance, the post alarmed university officials, who sought immediate intervention from law enforcement.
Why It Matters
This incident highlights the rising concern over violent rhetoric in political discourse, particularly on social media platforms. The reaction from authorities underscores the importance of addressing threats against public figures and ensuring community safety while promoting dialogue that upholds democratic values.
Key Developments
- A male user named hanslopez.bsky.social advocated for killing Vice President Vance on Bluesky.
- The individual identified himself as a radio host at WUML, the university-funded station.
- UMass Lowell police alerted federal agencies, including the FBI and the Secret Service, regarding the post.
- Authorities determined that there was no immediate threat following their assessment.
- The individual has since resigned from his volunteer role and deleted the offending post.
Full Report
Incident Details
The controversial post emerged on the left-leaning social media app Bluesky, where the account holder suggested, "It’s simple, we kill JD Vance," as a response to claims regarding Vance’s views on Britain and France as potential enemies of the U.S. The radio station, WUML, has served the UMass Lowell student body and the broader Lowell community for over six decades.
Official Response
Upon learning of the post, UMass Lowell officials took swift action, contacting local and federal law enforcement the same day. “UMass Lowell police promptly coordinated with the FBI, Secret Service, and Haverhill police to ensure an appropriate response,” a university statement affirmed. Authorities engaged with the individual responsible for the post to conduct necessary evaluations.
In a statement, the university emphasized its commitment to safety, asserting, “Statements such as the post in question are inconsistent with the values of our democracy and our university.” Following this incident, the individual resigned from his volunteer role and removed the inflammatory post from his Bluesky account.
Law Enforcement Involvement
While the specific details surrounding the investigation have not been fully disclosed, the response from UMass Lowell police and their collaboration with federal agencies reflects the seriousness of threats made against public figures. The Secret Service confirmed its awareness of the post, while the FBI opted not to comment further.
Context & Previous Events
Founded in 1952, WUML is a non-commercial radio station that has been managed and operated by student members, providing a platform for voices within the UMass Lowell community. The incident unfolds against a backdrop of increasing concerns regarding threats and violent rhetoric within the politically charged environment, especially on social media.
