SC Senator's Remarks About Firefighter Spark Backlash

Boiling Springs Fire Department defends firefighter Kyle Gilmore after state senator's critical comments.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 11:04pm

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A solitary firefighter's helmet and gloves rest on the side of a fire truck, the scene bathed in warm, cinematic light and deep shadows, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation and the importance of maintaining professionalism in emergency services.A firefighter's gear sits idle, a reminder of the public service that should remain untainted by political discord.Spartanburg Today

A fire department in Spartanburg County, South Carolina is standing behind one of its firefighters, Kyle Gilmore, after state senator and gubernatorial candidate Josh Kimbrell made critical comments about Gilmore on social media. The fire department has issued a statement reaffirming its support for Gilmore, who they say has demonstrated the department's core values of compassion, integrity, and commitment to public safety.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the potential for political tensions to spill over into the realm of public service and emergency response. The fire department's strong defense of Gilmore suggests they are committed to maintaining a professional environment focused on serving the community, rather than being influenced by personal or political grievances.

The details

In a Facebook comment, Kimbrell said the Boiling Springs Fire Department 'should not let you near a truck' in reference to firefighter Kyle Gilmore. Kimbrell later edited the comment to say Gilmore's baby was 'adorable' but maintained the department should not let him near a truck. The fire department has issued a statement reaffirming its support for Gilmore, calling him a 'vital and highly valued member' who has demonstrated the department's core values.

  • On January 5, Boiling Springs firefighter Kyle Gilmore posted a picture of himself and his daughter next to a fire truck.
  • On April 8, Kimbrell made his initial critical comments about Gilmore on the post, which he later edited.
  • On April 13, the Boiling Springs Fire Department issued a statement defending Gilmore and his service.

The players

Kyle Gilmore

A firefighter with the Boiling Springs Fire Department who was the subject of critical comments from a state senator.

Josh Kimbrell

A state senator in South Carolina who is also a candidate for governor, and who made critical comments about firefighter Kyle Gilmore on social media.

Scott Miller

The fire chief of the Boiling Springs Fire Department, who issued a statement defending firefighter Kyle Gilmore.

Boiling Springs Fire Department

The fire department in Spartanburg County, South Carolina that is standing by firefighter Kyle Gilmore after critical comments from a state senator.

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What they’re saying

“Kyle is a vital and highly valued member of our team. Throughout his service, he has consistently demonstrated the core values of our department: compassion, integrity, and a tireless commitment to the safety of our community. His performance on the line and his dedication to the citizens of Boiling Springs have been exemplary.”

— Scott Miller, Fire Chief, Boiling Springs Fire Department

What’s next

The Boiling Springs Fire Department has stated its hope to engage in a 'meaningful, professional conversation to resolve any misunderstandings' with Senator Kimbrell, in order to keep the focus on the 'life-saving work our firefighters perform every day'.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of maintaining a professional, non-partisan environment in public service roles like firefighting, where the focus should remain on serving the community rather than being influenced by personal or political disputes.