Statement on the efforts to obstruct the hiring of Marc Short

We are alarmed by the reactionary tactics being used to halt the addition of Marc Short to the University faculty. Specifically, there is a petition that has exacerbated yet another display of fabricated outrage.

This petition goes beyond reasonable objection -- it highlights the animus those on the left possess for anyone affiliated with conservatism. It transcends hatred for President Trump. The most concerning aspect is the petition’s endorsement by members of the University faculty. Faculty members should be welcoming new voices on our Grounds, not attempting to eradicate them.

Further, it begs the question: does the barring of people from academia stop with Trump administration officials? How about people who voted for President Trump? What about any Republican or individual with conservative ideology?

The manufactured outrage reflects the left’s conspicuous intolerance for any right-of-center idea. It is no secret that our University is overwhelmingly left-leaning through the faculty and students. One of the problems that our University faces today is welcoming differing political views. These faculty members and students would rather our university be an echo chamber of one set of ideas than an arena of all ideas.

The suppression of conservative voices is absurd. We are tired of the grandstanding and hypocrisy by people who constantly preach of tolerance while not subscribing to that doctrine for themselves. It is simply shameful.

Dismantling dialogue at our university leads us down a dark path and broadens the chasm between people with differing perspectives. In a time when our political leaders do little to unite people, it is our duty to encourage cohesiveness within our communities. Those who do otherwise are complicit in ushering toxicity and hatred for their fellow students, faculty, and citizens. In this case, it will discourage many high-profile individuals from joining the University of Virginia’s faculty for fear of ostracization. Luckily, it is evident that Marc Short has the courage to withstand such tactics.

Mr. Short has had an extensive political career and brings a boundless array of experience. The community should be thrilled to have him as a new addition to our school. As President Trump’s Director of Legislative Affairs, Mr. Short oversaw the signing of historic tax reform legislation, the confirmation of a Supreme Court Justice, and increased funding for our military. Moreover, he is an upstanding man who composes himself with decorum toward everyone -- even those with whom he disagrees.

Miller Center director and CEO, William Antholis, stated “Marc is widely respected in both parties. We had the privilege of getting to know Marc through the presidential transition and the Trump administration’s first year, and have been impressed by his professionalism, effectiveness, and collegiality.” The College Republicans at the University of Virginia concur with this assessment.

Mr. Short is an excellent addition to the Miller Center faculty and we emphatically support the University’s decision to hire him.

College Republicans Executive Board

Robert Andrews, Chairman

Dan Nakasone, Vice Chair of Campaigns

Tommy Zheng, Vice Chair of Events

Gerardo Escobedo, Treasurer

Riley Creamer, Secretary

Matthew Nalls, Director of Communications and Recruitment