Why Is Kohl’s Getting Bomb Threats? Unpacking a Disturbing Trend

The unsettling truth is that Kohl’s stores across the United States have recently become targets of a series of bomb threats, and the motivation appears to be directly linked to Kohl’s decision to stop selling MyPillow products. MyPillow, a brand synonymous with its outspoken and controversial founder, Mike Lindell, has faced significant backlash due to Lindell’s persistent promotion of false claims about the 2020 presidential election. This association, and Kohl’s subsequent decision to distance itself from the brand, seems to have triggered a wave of anger and, in some cases, illegal and dangerous threats against the retailer. This behavior, fueled by political polarization and the spread of misinformation, highlights the potential consequences of businesses making decisions that intersect with deeply held, often contentious, beliefs.

The MyPillow Connection: A Divisive Brand

The story doesn’t begin with Kohl’s itself, but with MyPillow and its CEO, Mike Lindell. Lindell’s unwavering support for debunked election fraud claims has made him a figure of considerable controversy. Major retailers, including Walmart, Bed Bath & Beyond, and Kroger, gradually stopped carrying MyPillow products, citing declining sales and consumer feedback. Kohl’s followed suit, confirming its decision in early 2021. While the company officially stated that the decision was based on “decreased customer demand,” many perceived it as a direct response to Lindell’s political activities. This perception, accurate or not, ignited a firestorm of outrage among Lindell’s supporters.

Outrage and Threats: The Escalation

The reaction to Kohl’s decision was swift and, unfortunately, violent in some cases. Online forums and social media platforms became breeding grounds for anger and calls for boycotts. While peaceful protests and expressions of disapproval are protected forms of free speech, some individuals crossed the line into making direct threats of violence, including bomb threats, against Kohl’s stores. These threats aimed to intimidate the company, disrupt its operations, and potentially endanger customers and employees. The FBI and local law enforcement agencies have been involved in investigating these threats, as they constitute serious federal crimes.

The Broader Context: Political Polarization and Retail

The situation with Kohl’s and MyPillow is emblematic of a larger trend: the increasing politicization of consumer choices. Businesses are now under intense pressure to take stances on social and political issues, and their decisions can have significant consequences, both positive and negative. In this case, Kohl’s decision, even if primarily driven by economic factors, became deeply intertwined with political sentiment, triggering an extreme response. This highlights the complex and often precarious position retailers find themselves in, navigating a landscape where consumer preferences are increasingly influenced by political and social values.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Kohl’s bomb threats situation:

1. When did Kohl’s stop selling MyPillow products? Kohl’s officially confirmed its decision to discontinue selling MyPillow products in early 2021.

2. What reason did Kohl’s give for removing MyPillow products from its stores? Kohl’s stated that the decision was based on decreased customer demand for MyPillow products. However, many believe it was also influenced by Mike Lindell’s political activities.

3. Are the bomb threats against Kohl’s considered a federal crime? Yes, making bomb threats is a serious federal crime punishable by significant fines and imprisonment.

4. Which law enforcement agencies are investigating the bomb threats? The FBI and various local law enforcement agencies are actively investigating the bomb threats against Kohl’s stores.

5. What is Mike Lindell’s involvement in this situation? Mike Lindell, the CEO of MyPillow, is central to the controversy. His vocal support for debunked election fraud claims led to boycotts of MyPillow products and, ultimately, to retailers like Kohl’s dropping the brand. The bomb threats are allegedly linked to anger over this decision.

6. Have any arrests been made in connection with the Kohl’s bomb threats? While details on specific arrests may not be publicly available, law enforcement agencies are actively working to identify and apprehend the individuals responsible for making the bomb threats.

7. Is Kohl’s the only retailer to have stopped selling MyPillow products? No. Other major retailers, including Walmart, Bed Bath & Beyond, and Kroger, have also stopped selling MyPillow products.

8. What security measures are Kohl’s stores taking in response to the threats? Kohl’s is likely implementing enhanced security measures, including increased security personnel, heightened surveillance, and closer coordination with law enforcement, to ensure the safety of its customers and employees. Specific details of these measures are typically not publicly disclosed for security reasons.

9. How has the situation impacted Kohl’s business operations? The bomb threats have likely disrupted Kohl’s business operations, leading to temporary store closures, increased security costs, and potential reputational damage. The extent of the impact is difficult to quantify.

10. What is the First Amendment’s role in this controversy? The First Amendment protects freedom of speech, but it does not protect threats of violence or incitement to violence. While individuals have the right to express their opinions about Kohl’s decision, making bomb threats is a criminal act that falls outside the scope of First Amendment protection.

11. Can Kohl’s be held liable for the actions of individuals making bomb threats? Generally, Kohl’s cannot be held liable for the criminal actions of individuals making bomb threats, as these are independent acts. However, Kohl’s has a responsibility to provide a safe environment for its customers and employees, and its actions in response to the threats could be subject to scrutiny.

12. What does this situation say about the current state of political discourse and consumerism? This situation underscores the increasing polarization of political discourse and its impact on consumerism. Businesses are now navigating a complex landscape where their decisions are often viewed through a political lens, and they face the potential for extreme reactions from consumers who feel strongly about particular issues. It highlights the need for businesses to be aware of the potential consequences of their decisions and to communicate effectively with their stakeholders.

In conclusion, the bomb threats against Kohl’s are a disturbing manifestation of the intense political polarization that characterizes contemporary society. While the immediate trigger appears to be Kohl’s decision to stop selling MyPillow products, the underlying issue is the willingness of some individuals to resort to violence and intimidation to express their political beliefs. The situation serves as a stark reminder of the challenges businesses face in navigating a politically charged environment and the importance of addressing threats of violence seriously.