Beni Rae Harmony, a reporter for WICS‑ABC20 in Springfield, Illinois, stepped down this week following her suspension over an emotional on‑air tribute to Charlie Kirk, whom she described as a mentor. The segment aired live last Friday and lasted approximately one minute and seventeen seconds, during which Harmony fought back tears while reflecting on Kirk’s influence in her life and urging viewers to hold fast to belief, community, and speaking up.
In a public statement, Harmony said her resignation was “guided by values that are essential to who I am,” adding that she refused to compromise her faith or love of country in order to keep her job. She expressed belief that she is the first in the mainstream media to be penalized for honoring Kirk on air, especially after so many others faced discipline for mocking his death. Her LinkedIn profile shows she worked with Turning Point USA in 2021–2022, where Kirk had been a founding figure.
During the tribute, Harmony comforted her audience, saying it was okay to feel sadness or grief after the tragic killing. She shared one of Kirk’s recurring messages—“When conversations stop happening, when individuals become wordless, that’s when violence begins… Speak loudly, even if your voice shakes. Your words have meaning, your values have purpose.” She ended by thanking Kirk for changing her life and offering prayers for his family.
Public reaction poured in. Many expressed support for Harmony, praising her courage and authenticity. Others questioned the station’s decision to suspend her, saying it raises concerns about free expression and whether media outlets are too quick to penalize employees for heartfelt tributes.
