Turning Point USA Debuts at Cal Poly Pomona

Conservative student group hosts first 'Pick Up the Mic' event, sparking debate on campus

Mar. 24, 2026 at 7:37am

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Cal Poly Pomona's new Turning Point USA chapter hosted its inaugural 'Pick Up the Mic' event in the University Quad on March 11, where over 100 students gathered to debate conservative commentator Will Witt on a range of political and cultural topics. The event, which aimed to promote free speech and conservative viewpoints, faced some administrative hurdles but ultimately went ahead with the support of the TPUSA chapter leadership.

Why it matters

The launch of a Turning Point USA chapter at Cal Poly Pomona reflects the growing presence of conservative student activism on college campuses nationwide. The 'Pick Up the Mic' event highlights the polarized political climate, as well as ongoing debates around free speech, diversity, and the role of universities in fostering open dialogue.

The details

During the 'Pick Up the Mic' event, students engaged in debates with Will Witt, a conservative media personality, on issues like the war in Iran, diversity and inclusion, climate change, and affirmative action. The event was organized by the newly formed CPP TPUSA chapter, led by President Sabriel Zapata. The chapter faced some challenges in getting the event approved and coordinating logistics with the university administration.

  • The 'Pick Up the Mic' event took place on March 11, 2026 in the University Quad at Cal Poly Pomona.
  • The CPP TPUSA chapter was established at the beginning of the 2026 spring semester.

The players

Turning Point USA (TPUSA)

A conservative non-profit organization that aims to promote limited government, free markets, and individual liberty through campus activism, events, and discussions.

Will Witt

A conservative media personality and author known for interviewing college students on cultural and political issues.

Sabriel Zapata

The president of the newly formed CPP TPUSA chapter.

Samara Asad

The scheduler for the CPP TPUSA chapter.

Bia Machain

The Vice President of Associated Students, Inc. (ASI) at Cal Poly Pomona.

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What they’re saying

“I felt like he was giving his opinion rather than his political thought. He answered it very personally rather than representing a certain party as a whole. It was nerve racking asking a question, because everyone is watching you, cameras are pointed at you, and you don't want to say the wrong thing.”

— Sophia Chheu, CPP Communications student

“Our hope is to grow and create a space where everyone can express their views, whether at a meeting or at a 'Pick Up the Mic' event, because every voice matters.”

— Sabriel Zapata, CPP TPUSA President

“I always saw tons of admin always watching, and it seemed like they were more bothered than the people at this school. Students who came up and debated seemed like they actually enjoyed the event.”

— Paulina Evangelista, TPUSA volunteer

“I will choose to believe that TPUSA did not make these comments in bad faith, but simply as a misunderstanding.”

— Bia Machain, ASI Vice President

What’s next

The CPP TPUSA chapter plans to host additional events in the future, including Christian faith nights and movie nights, as they continue to grow their presence on campus.

The takeaway

The launch of a Turning Point USA chapter at Cal Poly Pomona reflects the ongoing debates around free speech, political ideology, and the role of universities in fostering open dialogue on college campuses. The challenges faced by the chapter in getting their event approved highlight the sensitivity and polarization surrounding conservative student activism.