The Philomath school board censured former chair Erin Gudge for refusing to mourn conservative activist Charlie Kirk after his murder, citing social media misconduct.

The Philomath school board censured former chair Erin Gudge after she posted on Facebook that she would not mourn conservative activist Charlie Kirk following his murder, sparking public outcry, threats, and over 100 complaints. Though Gudge apologized and deleted the post, the board held a public hearing and voted unanimously to censure her, citing a breach of social media guidelines. The decision, symbolic in nature, reflects tensions over free speech, leadership conduct, and political expression in public office, particularly in small communities.