‘Nonbinary’ Researcher Calls for Assassination of Conservatives Sparking Investigation

A University of Washington research scientist is under investigation after allegedly posting a chilling message on social media that appeared to call for conservatives to be assassinated. The comment referenced the accused killer of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, prompting a wave of national backlash and renewed criticism of left-wing extremism inside academia.

The staffer, identified as 33-year-old Mara Maughan, is employed in UW’s Department of Microbiology as a research scientist at the university’s South Lake Union campus. Maughan, who identifies as non-binary and previously described herself online as “an autistic trans vaccine scientist,” reportedly made the comment under a Facebook post shared by Education Freedom Institute executive director Corey DeAngelis.

According to screenshots posted by DeAngelis, Maughan wrote, “May there be Tyler Robinsons for you all,” referencing the man currently on trial for assassinating Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk during a campus event on Sept. 10, 2025. The message circulated widely before Maughan’s social media accounts were scrubbed.

DeAngelis condemned the alleged threat, telling reporters, “This isn’t just inappropriate rhetoric. This is a university researcher wishing for more political assassinations. It normalizes violence and creates a dangerous environment for anyone who speaks openly about biological reality, education policy, or conservative values.”

University officials acknowledged the complaint late Wednesday. In a statement to Fox News Digital, UW Medicine said it “denounces violence against all people” and will conduct a full review of the situation, including relevant policy and legal considerations.

DeAngelis said the response felt inadequate. “UW only started paying attention after the public backlash,” he said. “If the university really cares about safety, they need meaningful disciplinary action. Anything less signals that this kind of rhetoric is acceptable for their employees.”

The controversy has intensified because it comes as the U.S. Supreme Court hears arguments on two major cases involving transgender athletes competing in women’s sports. The topic has inflamed political tensions nationwide, particularly among parents and women’s-rights advocates who argue that biological sex must determine athletic categories.

A senior researcher familiar with UW’s internal climate, who requested anonymity, said the incident reflects a broader cultural problem on campus. “People believe they can say anything as long as it’s aimed at conservatives,” the researcher said. “If the situation were reversed, there would be immediate firings and national media coverage.”

White House officials under President Trump have also been monitoring the case. One senior adviser said Thursday, “Taxpayer-funded institutions must ensure safe, neutral environments. Any employee calling for violence against political opponents should face consequences. Period.”

As of Thursday afternoon, Maughan had not responded to requests for comment.

The investigation remains ongoing.