AUSTIN, TX — Senate Chair Paul Bettencourt (R–Houston) and House Chair Terry Wilson (R–Georgetown) convened the first bi-partisan Joint Hearing on Civil Discourse and Freedom of Speech in Higher Education, confronting political intimidation on Texas campuses to restore free speech and civil discourse in higher education and review the Legislature’s recently passed legislation in this area. The Select Committee was formed by Lt. Governor Dan Patrick and Speaker Dustin Burrows following the tragic assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk.

“Political assassination cannot be condoned in this country, period,” Bettencourt said. “What we’re doing here today is about finding common ground and standing firm that political violence and intimidation have no place in Texas.”

Wilson followed Bettencourt’s remarks, “The people of Texas expect their public universities to uphold the rule of law, to safeguard free expression, and to protect every student's right to learn in an environment free from fear. This committee will work to ensure that.”

University of Texas at Austin President Jim Davis reaffirmed that commitment: “It is our absolute expectation that every student is able to engage in speech on our campus and we will not tolerate disruptions of that speech.”

Senate Vice Chair Bryan Hughes, House Vice Chair Richard Raymond and members from both chambers joined in testimony with university presidents, law enforcement, and student leaders to identify real solutions to protect open expression and campus safety. Turning Point USA’s regional representative Ricky Adam delivered one of the day’s most emotional testimonies, invoking the late Charlie Kirk’s legacy and drew applause from across the room :

• “I stand here today humbled to continue the mission of a man who changed the way a generation views truth and open dialogue. Charlie was a standard bearer for freedom of speech and he believed in it dearly. For that courage, he gave everything, including his life on September 10.” Recounting censorship and bias at Texas high schools, including a campus where student-led free speech efforts were allegedly shut down by staff as he ended his remarks: “Here in Texas, we’re launching a movement to put a Turning Point USA or Club America in every single high school. When students gather around truth, community, and conviction, they change not only their school but their generation. As Texas goes, so does the nation.”

“That’s why Lt. Gov. Patrick committed $1 million to jumpstart TPUSA’s efforts in Texas. I think all the members of the committee would help any organization that is committed to free speech and civil discourse. There were appalling examples in our education system, where hostile public employees worked to block these efforts, this will not be tolerated in Texas.” Sen. Bettencourt concluded with Rep. Wilson closing, “On behalf of this committee, we're extremely grateful to Speaker Burrows and Lieutenant Governor Patrick for putting together these very important committees.”

The Select Committee on Civil Discourse and Freedom of Speech in Higher Education will continue evaluating testimony and crafting legislation in this area to strengthen free speech protections and restore civil discourse across Texas’ Higher Education system in the coming months.

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