“We unequivocally denounce these remarks, which in no way reflect the values of the Adams administration,” a spokesperson for the mayor’s office told the Washington Examiner<\/em> in confirmation of Herbert’s termination. “As Mayor Adams said yesterday, political violence has no place in our city or in our nation, and it’s time we all turn down the temperature and stand united against hate.”<\/p>\n

“Charlie Kirk was a passionate young man, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this trying time,” the spokesperson said. “While the individual who made these comments was already on leave when he posted this video, he is now no longer employed by our administration.”<\/p>\n

Herbert made the questionable comment about Kirk in a video<\/a>, suggesting that Kirk deserved to die.<\/p>\n

“When you go out there and you talk about people and you talk about – and you know, become a racist — and you try to disguise that like you’re doing something for humanity, that’s a problem,” he said in part. “And unfortunately, karma has come to collect.”<\/p>\n

The former official also shared a meme<\/a> that celebrated the politically motivated attack and claimed Kirk “spent his entire life disparaging immigrants, disrespecting women, and blaming black folks.” In response, he wrote, “You hit the nail right on the head or should i say racist!!”<\/p>\n

Herbert was previously a community advocate in Brooklyn who unsuccessfully ran for New York City Public Advocate in 2019 and 2021.<\/p>\n

His comments were in direct contrast to those of Adams, who mourned Kirk’s death and denounced political violence.<\/p>\n

“I interviewed with Charlie Kirk just last month, and I saw a passionate young man who loved his country. Devastated to now learn of his assassination,” he posted on X<\/a>. “Political violence has no place in our nation. We must turn down the temperature and stand united against hate. I pray for Charlie’s family and loved ones.”<\/p>\n

Adams spoke with Kirk ahead of New York City’s mayoral election in November. The incumbent mayor had fond things to say about his interviewer.<\/p>\n

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Not long ago I had a real conversation with Charlie Kirk. We didn’t see eye to eye on everything, but he listened, he challenged, and I respected him for his eagerness to engage in dialogue.<\/p>\n
Now I can’t stop thinking about his wife, his kids, his family shattered overnight.… pic.twitter.com\/27s45nH1DJ<\/a><\/p>\n
— Eric Adams (@ericadamsfornyc) September 11, 2025<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n