A professor at the University of Tampa (UT), in Florida, claimed that the massive devastation caused by Hurricane Harvey in Texas, was “instant karma” punishing them for being conservatives.
In a statement on Tuesday – and in an example of “instant karma” in action – the University fired the visiting assistant professor of sociology, Kenneth Storey, over the incredibly offensive comment.
The university’s statement also contained an excerpt from the email sent to faculty and students on Tuesday morning, noting that the comments made by Storey on his personal Twitter account did in no way represent, “UT’s community views or values.”
“We condemn the comments and the sentiment behind them, and understand the pain this irresponsible act has caused,” the statement read.
The statement further said that “Storey has been relieved of his duties at UT, and his classes will be covered by other sociology faculty.”
“As Floridians, we are well aware of the destruction and suffering associated with tropical weather. Our thoughts and prayers are with all impacted by Hurricane Harvey,” the university’s email said.
Professor Storey posted the Tweet on Sunday, only a couple of days after Hurricane Harvey rampaged across the Texas Gulf Coast, and while those across the Gulf coast of Texas and Louisiana were still coping with massive flooding.
“I don’t believe in instant Karma but this kinda feels like it for Texas,” Storey tweeted, a screenshot published by Campus Reform showed.
A Twitter user responded to Storey’s tweet, saying that there are also “lots of good people in Texas.” Storey then justified his tweet saying that he was “only blaming those who support the GOP.” To another user asking if the Republicans in his state “deserve some karma too,” he replied, “yep, those who voted for him [President Trump] here deserve it as well.” Storey later deleted his tweets in an attempt to hide his actions.
While Storey’s twitter account has now been deleted, his name and contact information has also been deleted from the University of Tampa’s official website.
The damage caused by Hurricane Harvey has killed at least eight people in Texas, including a family of six. Millions have been displaced and several thousands are currently being rescued from flood waters.
President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump visited Texas on Tuesday to survey the damage and extend support to speed up recovery efforts.
