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Executive Director at Taxpayer-Funded NH Theater Praises Charlie Kirk’s Death
- Granite Eagle
- Sep 23
- 2 min read
PORTSMOUTH, NH — Jamie Bradley, executive director of the Seacoast Repertory Theatre (Seacoast Rep), is facing intense backlash after posting a social media message that appeared to celebrate the assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.
Bradley, who also plays bass for the New Hampshire rock band Fling, shared an Instagram story featuring a meme reading “Anti-Vaxxer Finally Gets Shot,” adding the caption “Thoughts and prayers 🤣.” The screenshot, widely shared across social media, drew immediate criticism from conservatives and community members alike. Bradley has since set his Instagram account to private.
The post came just days after Kirk was gunned down, making the timing particularly inflammatory. Critics said it crossed a line from political disagreement into condoning violence.
The outrage has been amplified by the fact that Seacoast Rep, the Portsmouth nonprofit Bradley oversees, receives taxpayer funding through both state and federal programs.
In 2023, the New Hampshire State Council on the Arts awarded Seacoast Rep funding under its Public Value Partnership grant. In the last fiscal year, the theater also received another State funded grant for its “Summer in the Street” program under the Arts for Community Engagement grant. Both grants are distributed with approval of the Governor and Executive Council.
The nonprofit also lists support from the National Endowment for the Arts, the federal agency that awards grants across the country.
Online backlash has been swift. One post calling for “repercussions” included Bradley’s professional photo and work email from the Seacoast Rep’s website. Others highlighted what they see as a double standard: arts leaders who preach inclusivity and community responsibility but make light of political violence when it targets conservatives.
The Seacoast Rep itself has not issued a public statement. It is unclear whether its board of directors intends to review the matter or if its public funding could be jeopardized.
The incident comes as concerns about political violence in America continue to rise. Conservatives note that right-leaning figures, from former President Donald Trump to Congressman Steve Scalise, have been disproportionately targeted. Bradley’s post, they argue, reflects a broader culture that excuses or even celebrates violence when aimed at Republicans.
Arts organizations nationwide are also under scrutiny for how they use taxpayer dollars. With state and federal budgets stretched thin, some taxpayers are asking why public funds should support institutions whose leadership makes inflammatory or offensive statements.
Swear it must be either the water or something in the air in Portsmouth.
Craig Welch, the executive director of Portsmouth Housing Authority refused to honor both the president's and governor's executive orders that all flags at federal and government buildings were to be flown at 1/2 staff in memory of Charlie Kirk. Mr. Welch works for a government agency, funded thru HUD with federal funds.
He is a public servant. Whatever his political views and beliefs are, he needs to put them aside when it comes to making decisions pertaining to Portsmouth Housing Authority. He needs to be investigated and either temporary suspended or terminated for his actions.
PHA manages and owns approximately 12 federally funded housing for low…
Hopefully the governor pulls funding from them or demands his resignation. Its too bad, because its a pillar of Portsmouth and I have enjoyed many shows there. But it has lost its pinache and style since He took control. Time for a change, I'd say.