An Illinois State University faculty member has been arrested after a viral video surfaced showing him flipping a Turning Point USA table set up on campus. The incident, which occurred this week, has sparked significant backlash and raised questions about free speech and respect on college campuses.
The individual caught in the video is identified as Derek Lopez, a 27-year-old teacher’s assistant and graduate student at the university. In the video, Lopez is seen approaching the Turning Point USA table, which had been set up to promote an upcoming event featuring political YouTuber and comedian Alex Stein. Before flipping the table, Lopez is heard telling a man standing nearby, “Well, you know, Jesus did it, so you know I gotta do it, right?” He then proceeds to knock over the table, sending promotional materials and flyers scattering into the air.
The incident was captured on video and quickly went viral, amassing nearly 50,000 views on Fox News’ X profile after being shared on Saturday. Lopez, dressed in red pants, a black and red flannel, and a bun, is seen walking away with a smirk, waving and saying, “Thanks guys, have a great day.”
Lopez was later arrested by the Illinois State University Police Department on Friday and charged with disorderly conduct and criminal damage to property. Authorities confirmed that a second incident, in which Lopez allegedly disrupted another student organization’s table, is also being investigated. However, details of that incident have not been released.
The video has generated a wave of criticism, particularly on social media, where many commenters have expressed outrage over Lopez’s actions. One user wrote, “Imagine paying $30K a year for tuition just to see your TA reenact a toddler meltdown in 4K. No class, literally.” Others condemned the behavior as disrespectful to free speech, with one comment reading, “Actions like that show a complete lack of respect for free speech and open debate. College should be about ideas, not tantrums and censorship.”
Illinois State University’s Police Department Chief, Aaron Woodruff, issued a statement emphasizing the university’s commitment to protecting First Amendment rights. “We encourage all members of our community to learn more about free speech rights and responsibilities at Illinois State University, including constructive ways to respond when encountering speech they may disagree with,” he said.
The Turning Point USA group on campus did not immediately respond to inquiries, but the incident has sparked significant discussion about the balance between free speech and personal conduct on university campuses. It has also drawn attention to the recent shooting of Turning Point founder Charlie Kirk, who was tragically killed while engaging with a crowd at an event at Utah Valley University just over a month ago.
Lopez’s actions have raised questions about how campuses should handle protests and disagreements, especially when they involve public figures or student organizations with whom some may disagree. The incident underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding free speech, protest, and the role of educators in maintaining a respectful and open campus environment.
