Marsha Blackburn sued by Austin Peay State University professor

Darren Michael, an associate professor of acting and directing at Austin Peay State University (APSU), has filed a lawsuit against U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn. Michael alleges that Blackburn used her political position to pressure the university to fire him following a social media post regarding the assassination of Charlie Kirk.

Michael was initially terminated by APSU last September but was later reinstated after the university admitted it failed to follow proper procedures for firing tenured staff. As part of a settlement, APSU agreed to pay Michael $500,000 and issue a statement expressing regret over the procedural errors.

The lawsuit claims Blackburn’s actions violated Michael’s First and Fourteenth Amendment rights, causing him and his family emotional distress and fear for their safety. Michael is seeking compensation for lost benefits, wages, medical expenses, and damages for reputational harm. A spokesperson for Blackburn described the lawsuit as “meritless,” stating her criticisms were protected speech.