Bellarmine University Instructor Tweets ‘Don’t Miss’ Amid Trump Assassination Attempt, Gets Suspended

Posted: July 17, 2024

Bellarmine University in Louisville has suspended instructor John James following a controversial social media post. James posted, “If you’re gonna shoot, man, don’t miss,” accompanied by a screenshot of an article about the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump over the weekend.

The university responded after multiple inquiries from WDRB News on Monday. A spokesperson for Bellarmine University issued a statement condemning the post, stating, “Words and actions that condone violence are unacceptable and contrary to our values, which call for respecting the intrinsic value and dignity of every individual. We strive to create an inclusive community that welcomes all and models a spirit of goodwill. We are aware of an offensive and unacceptable social media post made by an employee over the weekend. That individual has been placed on immediate unpaid leave.”

The attempted assassination of Trump occurred Saturday at a rally in Pennsylvania, causing panic as gunfire erupted. Trump, reportedly shot in the ear, was quickly surrounded by Secret Service agents and escorted to safety in his SUV. Despite the chaos, Trump defiantly pumped his fist in response.

Trump’s campaign later confirmed that he was in good health after sustaining a wound to the upper part of his right ear. The incident has sparked intense political discourse, with reactions varying widely across social media platforms.

The suspension of James has ignited broader discussions about the responsibilities of educators and public figures on social media, underscoring the significant impact of their words and actions in both professional and public spheres. This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the potential consequences of online behavior and the critical importance of upholding community standards, particularly within educational institutions like Bellarmine University.