California Lutheran University senate disapproves Turning Point USA chapter

Turning Point USA Chapter Rejected at California Lutheran University

The student senate at California Lutheran University has voted against establishing a chapter of Turning Point USA (TPUSA) on campus. The decision was made through a secret ballot, resulting in a 2-11-1 vote, according to the student news organization, the Echo.

Over 50 individuals participated in the vote, which was conducted by standing. Carlos Daniel Zaragoza, a senator representing commuters, expressed that he wasn’t surprised by the outcome. He mentioned, “At the end of the day, we try to be fair and impartial, and we want to see all clubs succeed. But we notice when clubs are trying to push certain rhetoric. What we need is controversy on this campus.”

Tristan Quesada, a freshman who would have led the proposed club, emphasized the importance of having a space for students with similar beliefs. He stated, “I think it’s important to have a safe space for students who think like us… There is no safe space for our fellow conservatives.”

Luke Taylor, a sophomore and would-be vice president of the chapter, recalled being approached about reviving the club following the tragic incident involving Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. He noted that although the proposed chapter doesn’t currently have an academic advisor, it boasts seven confirmed members—enough to meet the Senate’s requirement for consideration.

Despite the rejection, Taylor revealed that over 20 students had shown interest in the organization. He clarified, “We’re not affiliated with any political party. It’s primarily about the Word of God and how we should use it to look at politics and government.”

The university previously had an active TPUSA chapter, which disbanded in late 2021. Taylor also mentioned that while he believed renaming the club might help in the Senate, he hoped it wouldn’t come to that.

Reflecting on the situation, Taylor asserted, “Whatever your beliefs are, you should speak them out. That’s why we live in this country. And to hear people say we’re shutting down when our organization is giving people microphones? It doesn’t matter that we’re shut down today. God is still God. God is King. We believe in God. God’s purpose is great and we will keep fighting.”