News Summary
Former NFL player Chris Kluwe’s lawsuit against the Huntington Beach Union High School District is facing setbacks due to legal and political complications. Kluwe claims his termination as an assistant football coach was retaliation for his political speech criticizing the MAGA movement. Despite potential legal protections, procedural errors and the political climate in Orange County complicate his case. Kluwe also plans to run for the state Assembly in 2026, focusing on issues like climate change and affordable housing.
Huntington Beach – Former NFL player Chris Kluwe’s federal lawsuit against the Huntington Beach Union High School District (HBUHSD) for his termination as an assistant football coach is currently stalled due to significant legal challenges and political tensions. Kluwe alleges that his dismissal was a direct result of his political speech criticizing the MAGA movement during a February city council meeting, where he described it as “explicitly a Nazi movement.” The complications surrounding his case come from procedural missteps and California’s legal framework concerning school district employment practices.
Kluwe, who served as an assistant coach for the freshman football team at Edison High School since 2019, was employed in an at-will capacity. This status means he lacked protections against arbitrary dismissal, enabling HBUHSD to terminate him without providing a reason, provided it was not for illegal causes. Kluwe’s termination occurred just a week after his arrest for allegedly disturbing the assembly during the city council meeting where he spoke.
Details of the Meeting and Arrest
During the city council meeting in February, Kluwe outspokenly criticized the MAGA movement and later approached council members aligned with the movement, which ultimately led to his arrest. Following the meeting, he made a controversial social media post that called for action against the MAGA-supporting council members. In response to concerns regarding possible incitement of violence related to this post, Kluwe was contacted by police and subsequently deleted the post.
In his interactions, Kluwe used derogatory language toward individuals who had expressed complaints about his social media activity. The HBUHSD administration cited breaches of professional conduct and standards when they terminated him, a decision made within one week of the events in the city council.
Legal Challenges Ahead
Kluwe’s lawsuit has faced substantial obstacles, including a significant procedural flaw. He filed the lawsuit without submitting a written claim as mandated by the California Tort Claims Act. This oversight is a critical point that could impede the progress of his case. Furthermore, most of Kluwe’s legal arguments hinge on federal claims under 42 U.S.C. § 1983. However, the ability to pursue such claims is complicated by the 11th Amendment, which provides California school districts with sovereign immunity from federal civil rights claims.
Kluwe also had potential avenues available under California labor laws that protect employee political opinions and activities, notably Labor Code sections 1101 and 1102. Additionally, Labor Code section 432.7, which prohibits discrimination based on arrest records, may also have relevancy to his circumstances. These labor protections could have supported claims that Kluwe’s civil rights were violated during his termination.
Context of Political Climate
The demographics of Orange County, where many residents support the MAGA movement, further complicate Kluwe’s case. His public rhetoric and criticisms might alienate potential jurors, making it more challenging for him to achieve a favorable outcome in court. Despite these hurdles, Kluwe is planning to run for the state Assembly District 72 seat in 2026, motivated by community support and his disagreements with conservative policies. His political platform will emphasize critical issues such as climate change, affordable housing, and wildfire management.
Kluwe’s decision to enter the political arena has also been influenced by Republican council member Gracey Van Der Mark’s candidacy and Kluwe’s previous criticisms of her policies. Currently, he is actively engaging with Democratic clubs, setting up a campaign team, and developing a campaign website to promote his upcoming political endeavors.
In addition to his legal struggles, Kluwe has registered for a pre-filing diversion program following his arrest, which entails community service to prevent formal charges. Kluwe has long been an advocate for various social issues, aiming to leverage his platform for political reform in opposition to the policies of the Trump administration.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Former NFL Punter Sues Huntington Beach School District
Gun Violence Spills Into Huntington Beach, Sparks Arrests
Matt White Appointed Principal of Edison High School
Chris Kluwe Sues School District Over Termination
Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Chris Kluwe Planning State Assembly Run
- FOX LA: Chris Kluwe and First Amendment Concerns
- OC Register: Chris Kluwe Running for California Assembly Seat
- Wikipedia: Chris Kluwe
- AOL: Ex-NFL Punter Chris Kluwe Arrested Protesting
- Google Search: Chris Kluwe
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
