Governor Greg Abbott of Texas is facing criticism for the state's forceful response to a protest at the University of Texas at Austin, where over 50 people, including a journalist, were arrested. The demonstration, which was nonviolent but unsanctioned, aimed to urge the university to divest from arms manufacturers and companies profiting from Israel’s activities in Gaza. Despite the peaceful nature of the protest, which included plans for educational sessions and art workshops, state troopers intervened significantly. Critics argue that this response contradicts Abbott’s previously stated commitments to free speech, highlighting a perceived inconsistency in his stance, especially given his recent executive order targeting antisemitic speech on campuses. This has sparked a broader debate about free speech and political expression at public universities.