University of Florida Deactivates College Republicans Chapter

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The University of Florida has deactivated its campus chapter of the College Republicans after being notified that some members engaged in antisemitic behavior. The deactivation marks the second time this month that a public university in Florida has taken action against a Republican group accused of racist or antisemitic conduct.

Why it matters

The incident highlights ongoing concerns about extremist and hateful rhetoric on college campuses, particularly from student political organizations. Universities are grappling with how to balance free speech protections with maintaining an inclusive environment for all students.

The details

The University of Florida said it was informed by the Florida Federation of College Republicans that the federation had disbanded the Gainesville campus' chapter after determining that some members had 'engaged in a pattern of conduct that violated its rules and values, including a recent antisemitic gesture.' The university said it will assist with reactivating the campus chapter under new student leadership when the state federation is ready.

• On March 16, 2026, the University of Florida announced it was deactivating the campus College Republicans chapter.

What’s next

The University of Florida said it will work with the state College Republicans organization to reactivate the campus chapter under new leadership when they are ready.