Federal Agents Question Wisconsin Activist Over Controversial Social Media Post
In a series of events that underscores the volatile intersection of social media and politics, Kirk Bangstad, a prominent liberal activist from Wisconsin, was interviewed by the U.S. Secret Service and FBI following a provocative Facebook post. The post, which came shortly after an attempt on President Donald Trump’s life, has sparked significant attention and controversy.
Bangstad’s Facebook commentary emerged Saturday night, soon after prosecutors alleged that Cole Tomas Allen attempted to attack the president at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner. Bangstad mused about the attempt, suggesting that either members of “the Resistance” needed better aim or the assassination attempt was staged. His post also expressed readiness to offer free beer at his Minocqua Brewing Company should a successful attempt occur.
Conservative groups reacted with outrage, prompting a federal investigation. On Thursday, Bangstad shared a livestream video showing agents arriving at his brewery, questioning him about any intentions or knowledge of threats against the president or vice president. Bangstad denied any such knowledge or intent.
His attorney explained to the agents that “resistance fighters” referred to in Bangstad’s post are those opposing the Trump administration. The interaction ended with agents taking notes and leaving, while Bangstad commented on the incident, suggesting it was a result of pressure from Trump supporters.
Bangstad concluded his video by affirming the importance of free speech, declaring, “the First Amendment’s free speech protection still rules, and we’re never going to stop talking.”
While Bangstad declined to speak further with Wisconsin Public Radio, a joint statement from the U.S. Secret Service and FBI confirmed that the visit was part of an ongoing investigation, with no additional comments provided.
The repercussions of Bangstad’s post extended beyond himself. Aspirus Health severed ties with an employee, Brian Kellar, after he commented on the post with a photo of himself in an FDT (an acronym for “F— Donald Trump”) shirt, citing a misalignment with their values. Furthermore, in Kaukauna, a teacher faced administrative leave due to a related social media comment about presidential assassins, as reported by Fox 11 News. The teacher’s future remains uncertain pending further discussion by the school board.
