By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Right-wing internet personality Ben Bergquam filmed outside of Governor JB Pritzker’s home after the murder of Charlie Kirk, prompting concerns about the governor’s safety. In the video, Bergquam criticized Pritzker, blamed “leftist Democrat policies” for Kirk’s death, and encouraged viewers to “take action.” Illinois State Police are aware of the video and taking the safety of the governor and his family seriously. Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch condemned the video, calling it intimidation and a call for further violence.
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Right-wing influencer films Pritzker’s home, stokes concern by asking followers to ‘take action’ after Kirk death. The core of the issue revolves around the actions of a right-wing internet personality, Ben Bergquam, who filmed outside Governor J.B. Pritzker’s home, using the tragic murder of Charlie Kirk as a springboard to incite his followers. This incident is not just about filming; it’s about the blatant call for “action,” a phrase that, in this context, is deeply troubling and raises serious questions about the potential for political violence.
It’s essential to recognize the context. This isn’t an isolated incident; it’s part of a broader pattern where right-wing figures exploit tragedies to advance their agendas, often by stoking animosity and encouraging aggression towards those they perceive as political enemies. This event brings to mind the actions of those who have turned to violence in the past. The gravity of the situation escalates when considering the potential ramifications if such encouragement leads to an attack or other dangerous actions.
The underlying issue goes far beyond Bergquam’s individual actions. It also underscores the dangerous rhetoric and the potential consequences it can have. Pritzker’s home has been made a target through the recording of it and posting it for the world to see. This is more than just a breach of privacy.
The timing of this incident is also critical. It occurred after the murder of Charlie Kirk. While it is important not to jump to conclusions, we must also consider whether this is directly tied to this incident. The call to “take action” following the tragedy raises the potential of further incidents that are aimed to inflame violence or fear.
It is not the first time that violence has occurred among members of this group. It serves as another reminder of the dangers posed by extremist ideologies and the need for vigilance against all forms of political violence.
The response from the right wing community has been slow, if there is any response at all.
It is important to understand this action, and many others, is what is fueling the current political divides in the United States.
The legal implications of Bergquam’s actions are also important. Could this be interpreted as inciting violence?
The larger issues are where we are lacking in real world solutions, but are readily available in the digital world. Where we are seeing violence on the right wing, we need to be able to get the information as quickly as possible. The media must be accurate and the information must be disseminated quickly and with integrity. When people, especially kids, feel as though their lives are in danger, we need to take action immediately.
It is important to understand who the shooter was, and to not use this incident to attack political opponents.