Teaching Assistant at Illinois State University Fired After Flipping Tables
A teaching assistant at Illinois State University’s Turning Point USA (TPUSA) chapter has been dismissed following two intense incidents involving the group.
According to Matt Sanner, the VP of TPUSA at the university, “No one intervened, and he flipped the table not just once, but twice. It escalated to a level where it warranted attention from the university.”
In a conversation with Fox News Digital, Sanner and chapter president Ben Umdenstock recounted the events that unfolded.
First Incident: A Shocking Table Flip
Ben characterized the initial table flip, which occurred on October 13, as something out of a dramatic scene from a movie. The chaos began when teaching assistant Derek Lopez engaged in a heated argument, pulling out the Constitution and labeling the situation as “fascism.” He then flipped the table over, leaving Ben stunned. “I was like, ‘Whoa,’ and he just said, ‘Have a great day.’” Ben reflected, “It was just… crazy.”
Addressing why he didn’t retaliate, Ben simply remarked, “I wouldn’t go that far.”
Second Incident: Escalation
A week later, on October 17, tensions rose again when TPUSA set up another table. Matt sensed Lopez would attempt to flip the table again and positioned himself between Lopez and the setup. Lopez, 27, attempted to turn the table over again while making a remark that, as a religious person, Ben found misplaced. “That set me off completely,” he shared. Despite his efforts to prevent Lopez from damaging the table, the teaching assistant managed to create further disruption by tearing down a flyer advertising an upcoming event.
Ben noted that he recorded the second incident because he sensed trouble was looming after the initial altercation.
The Response and Aftermath
Matt discussed previous interactions with Lopez, mentioning that the teaching assistant had displayed rudeness towards students expressing conservative views. He expressed gratitude toward the university, stating that they had been incredibly supportive. “The administration has made me feel welcome as a conservative student, which isn’t the case everywhere.”
Lopez has been relieved of his duties as a graduate teaching assistant, pending further investigation. The university’s statement indicated that they do not comment on personnel matters but confirmed his dismissal. Additionally, Lopez has faced allegations of interfering with another student organization’s information table.
On Friday, he was arrested on charges related to disorderly conduct and vandalism, with the possibility of further legal action or disciplinary measures by the university.
The university emphasized its commitment to promoting civil discourse and protecting the rights of all students. Moreover, campus police reiterated the importance of free speech rights on campus and encouraged constructive responses to differing opinions.
Lopez did not provide comments when approached for a response.
