Ken Paxton Presses Universities to Uphold Free Speech

Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) has joined a multistate coalition in urging university leaders nationwide to protect free speech rights on campus. The coalition's letter warns against using heightened security measures as a pretext to restrict conservative voices in the aftermath of conservative activist Charlie Kirk's assassination.

The letter, led by Iowa officials and signed by Paxton, emphasizes that policies governing facility use and security fees must remain neutral. It cautions that targeting groups or speakers because of their political perspectives would amount to unlawful discrimination.

"Any twisted radical attempt to weaponize the tragedy of Charlie Kirk's assassination to silence the conservative movement will be exposed, stopped, and held accountable," Paxton warned. "The patriotic voices of the young people in the conservative movement are louder and stronger than ever, and I will not allow any school to quiet them."

The Texas attorney general also requested that universities confirm their policies comply with First Amendment protections. According to the letter, state officials will be closely monitoring how schools implement rules affecting campus speakers and events.

Paxton underscored that his office stands ready to defend the constitutional rights of Texans, particularly students engaging in political advocacy. The move reflects ongoing national debates over the balance between campus safety measures and protection of free speech.