Fort Worth City Councilwoman Elizabeth Beck is facing mounting backlash for her Instagram reaction to the assassination of Charlie Kirk.
The controversy has now shifted beyond calls for her resignation. Residents are asking a bigger question: Can Beck be recalled from office?
As previously reported by The Dallas Express, Beck drew outrage for posting an Instagram story mocking Kirk shortly after his death.
The reaction from Fort Worth residents was swift.
“Elizabeth Beck should resign immediately,” Fort Worth resident Kenya Alu told The Dallas Express. “Charlie had a wife and two young children. To post something like that is disgusting. She is unfit for public office.”
As public anger continues, attention has turned to the Fort Worth City Charter to see if voters can take action.
The Recall Process
Under the city charter, removing a sitting council member begins with a petition. Petitioners must state their reasons for removal and collect signatures from at least 20% of registered voters in that district, according to American Legal.
If the city secretary rules the petition insufficient, petitioners have 10 days to correct and amend the petition. The secretary then has 25 days to reexamine the amended petition. If it still falls short, it is returned, and petitioners may file a new petition on different grounds.
If deemed sufficient, the petition is sent to the city council. The targeted councilmember then has five days to resign. If they step down, no election is held. If they refuse, the city council must order a recall election, giving district voters the final say on removal.
