NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance (TDCI) Commissioner Carter Lawrence announced Friday that a department employee was terminated following comments made on social media regarding the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

In his statement, Commissioner Lawrence said that upon learning of the employee’s online remarks, an internal review was conducted. The review found that the employee linked herself to the department on social media and posted comments that demonstrated bias and disregard toward citizens the agency serves. Commissioner Lawrence stated that the employee’s conduct brought the state into disrepute, prompting immediate termination.

“The Department of Commerce and Insurance is proud to serve all Tennesseans and will not tolerate employees’ discriminating animus against their fellow citizens,” Lawrence said in the written release.

Governor Bill Lee’s office letterhead was included in the official statement, underscoring the seriousness of the action.

The Department of Commerce & Insurance oversees areas such as insurance regulation, consumer protection, fire prevention, and professional licensing across Tennessee.