1. United States
2. Ala.
3. Letter

I am an active constituent in Auburn, AL, and I outraged by Donald Trump’s blatant threat to withhold funding from universities that allow protests—a direct attack on the First Amendment and the fundamental rights of every American. This is not leadership. This is authoritarianism, and it is unacceptable. I work at Auburn University and this threat is extremely offensive. The right to free speech and peaceful assembly is not up for debate. Universities exist to foster discussion, critical thinking, and civic engagement. Silencing students and faculty by threatening their institutions with financial ruin is nothing more than an attempt to crush dissent and control public discourse. This is exactly the kind of government overreach that conservatives used to oppose—so where is your opposition now? Do you support the Constitution, or do you support Trump’s push to punish those who dare to express views he doesn’t like? This is not just about politics—this is about the core freedoms that define America. If the government can decide which protests are "acceptable" and which should be shut down through financial blackmail, then we no longer live in a democracy. PLEASE stand up against this unconstitutional power grab. If you truly believe in American values, then you must make it clear that you oppose any effort to silence speech through financial coercion. Your silence on this matter will be noted—and remembered. I expect a response.