Full Breakdown
Texas State University Fires Professor for Advocating Political Violence
9/13/2025, 1:15:49 AM
Overview of the Incident
Tom Alter, a former associate history professor at Texas State University (TSU), was terminated from his position following remarks made during the online Revolutionary Socialism Conference on September 7, 2025. In a video that circulated widely on social media, Alter appeared to advocate for political violence, stating, “Without organization, how can anyone expect to overthrow the most bloodthirsty, profit-driven mad organization in the history of the world, that of the U.S. government?” His comments prompted immediate backlash and led to his dismissal just days later.
Official Statements & Responses
TSU President Kelly Damphousse announced Alter's firing, citing his remarks as “serious professional and personal misconduct” that contradicted the university's values. She stated, “Conduct that advocates for inciting violence is directly contrary to the values of Texas State University. I cannot and will not tolerate such behavior.” Brian McCall, the chancellor of the Texas State University System, supported the decision, emphasizing that the institution would not tolerate any conduct intended to incite violence.
Background & Context
Alter's comments came amid a broader political climate in Texas, where academic freedom has faced scrutiny. His dismissal followed another high-profile termination at Texas A&M University, where an English professor was fired after a confrontation regarding LGBTQ content in a children's literature course. This sequence of events has raised concerns about political interference in higher education, with critics arguing that such actions undermine academic freedom.
Criticism & Opposition
The American Association of University Professors (AAUP) expressed concern over Alter's firing, arguing that it sets a dangerous precedent for partisan interference in academia. Todd Wolfson, president of the AAUP, stated, “It really undermines our ability to have healthy college campuses if people are so afraid of the political opinion of an elected leader that they're not able to speak honestly.” The AAUP has called for both Texas State University and Texas A&M University to reverse their decisions, highlighting the importance of due process and academic freedom.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the university administration has characterized Alter's remarks as incitement to violence, the context of his statements has not been fully explored in public discourse. Critics argue that the rapid response to his comments reflects a broader trend of political pressure on educational institutions, suggesting that the motivations behind the firings may be more complex than simply upholding university values.
What's Next
The situation has prompted discussions about the future of academic freedom in Texas, with many educators expressing a desire to seek employment in states perceived as more supportive of academic independence. The ongoing debate may lead to further scrutiny of university policies and state legislation affecting higher education.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Conduct that advocates for inciting violence is directly contrary to the values of Texas State University. I cannot and will not tolerate such behavior,” — Kelly Damphousse, President, Texas State University
- “Video recordings made public this week in which a Texas State University professor advocated for the overthrow of our government are inconsistent with our shared values and demonstrate egregious personal and professional misconduct.” — Brian McCall, Chancellor, Texas State University System
- “We strongly believe that faculty have a right to academic freedom and due process," Wolfson said.” — Todd Wolfson, President, American Association of University Professors
