Former NFL quarterback and social activist Colin Kaepernick recently entered a political exchange, seemingly criticizing House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. The interaction stemmed from a Twitter debate between McCarthy and California Governor Gavin Newsom concerning crime and gun control in California.
Newsom proposed a 28th Amendment to the Constitution aimed at curbing gun violence, to which McCarthy responded by highlighting the existing Second Amendment. Newsom retorted by pointing to the high murder rate in McCarthy's district, accusing him of inaction. Kaepernick then joined the conversation, tweeting "#KillingCounty," a reference to his docuseries exploring controversial deaths involving law enforcement in Kern County, part of McCarthy's district.
McCarthy's district encompasses portions of Kern, Tulare, Kings, and Fresno Counties. The documentary series Kaepernick referenced also touches upon the Bakersfield Police Department, located in McCarthy's hometown of Bakersfield.
Kaepernick's involvement in social activism has increased significantly since his departure from the 49ers after the 2016 season. He has been openly critical of the NFL and its social justice initiatives, stating last month that he hasn't observed substantial change and believes the league has significant work to do.
