Wilsonville Board Member Resigns After ‘Disturbing’ Comments on Charlie Kirk Shooting

On Sept. 15, 2025, Clark Hildum resigned his seat on the Wilsonville Development Review Board following public outcry over social media remarks he made after conservative activist Charlie Kirk was fatally shot in Orem, Utah. Mayor Shawn O’Neil opened Monday’s City Council meeting by condemning political violence and announcing Hildum’s resignation, calling the former board member’s comments “disturbing” and “not the Wilsonville way.”

What Happened

• Hildum, appointed earlier this year to oversee land‐use and building projects in Wilsonville, posted on social media that Kirk’s assassination was “a long-overdue correction” and that “we used to know how to handle traitors.”

• Screenshots of the post went viral, prompting swift backlash from residents and local leaders who said the remarks glorified violence.

Mayor and Council Response

• Mayor O’Neil warned that “destructive words and rising anger can trigger more violence,” urging civility and denouncing all threats of political violence.

• Councilor Adam Cunningham emphasized that even those who disagree with Kirk’s views understood his humanity and called on the city to reaffirm respect for life and democratic principles.

Community Reaction

• Within hours, dozens of residents emailed and called the city to express shock and disappointment.

• A community vigil for Kirk was organized by private citizens at Town Center Park for Sept. 19 at 7 p.m., drawing bipartisan support to condemn violence against public figures.

Hildum’s Resignation

• In his resignation letter, Hildum apologized for the pain his words caused and stated he never intended to incite violence.

• He wrote that stepping down would prevent his comment from overshadowing the board’s work and allow the city to focus on collaboration and public trust.

Next Steps for the Board

• The City Council accepted Hildum’s resignation and will begin reviewing applications to fill the vacancy on the Development Review Board.

• Interviews for a replacement are expected to be scheduled in October, with the goal of appointing a new member by early November.

Broader Context

Political violence and inflammatory rhetoric have escalated nationwide following high-profile shootings. City leaders in Wilsonville and beyond are grappling with how to maintain civil discourse and protect public servants and private citizens alike from threats rooted in social media commentary.

Related Coverage

• Nationwide consequences for similar comments, including job losses and disciplinary actions for public employees and educators who celebrated Kirk’s death

• Virginia school board member resigns after analogous remarks on Kirk’s assassination, highlighting the sensitivity elected officials face when responding to violence