Beni Rae Harmony, a local anchor at ABC affiliate WICS in Springfield, Illinois, has resigned after being suspended for delivering an emotional on-air tribute to conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The segment aired live on Friday, during which Harmony tearfully honored Kirk, whom she described as a personal mentor.
Harmony Speaks Out on Her Resignation
Harmony clarified that her decision to resign was not politically motivated, but rooted in principle. She stated she would not compromise her values to retain her job.
In a social media statement, she wrote: “Effective immediately, I have resigned from @WICS_ABC20 after being SUSPENDED for airing a non-partisan tribute to Charlie Kirk this past Friday. Many in the mainstream media have been fired or punished for mocking his assassination. I believe I am the first to be targeted for honoring him on air.”
She added: “My resignation is guided by values that are essential to who I am, which I refuse to set aside in order to keep a job. I choose my faith and love of country, and always will.”
“Thank you, Springfield. My home. My community. My people. ❤️ God Bless Charlie Kirk and his beautiful family, and God Bless these United States of America.”
Effective immediately, I have resigned from @WICS_ABC20 after being SUSPENDED for airing a non-partisan tribute to Charlie Kirk this past Friday.
Many in the mainstream media have been fired or punished for mocking his assassination. I believe I am the first to be targeted for… pic.twitter.com/y41QOWDBl5
— Beni Rae Harmony (@BeniRaeHarmony) September 15, 2025
National Wave of Suspensions and Firings
Harmony’s departure comes amid a national wave of suspensions and terminations following public comments about Charlie Kirk’s assassination. While many were penalized for mocking or celebrating Kirk’s death, Harmony says she was targeted for honoring him on air.
The fallout has affected a variety of professionals, including political pundits, university employees, sports reporters, and even a US Secret Service agent. Teachers and professors have also reportedly faced disciplinary action for expressing opinions about Kirk.
Charlie Kirk’s Death Sparks National Debate
Charlie Kirk was fatally shot while delivering a speech at Utah Valley University, sparking a nationwide discussion on political violence and the risks tied to publicly commenting on polarizing figures. Harmony’s resignation highlights the increasing professional consequences for expressing personal views in a highly polarized environment.
