Attorneys for a terminated Texas State University professor have announced an impending lawsuit. The professor was fired after revelations that he had called for the overthrow of the U.S. government.
It was widely reported on Tuesday that attorneys for former Professor Tom Alter claimed he was fired “because he espoused views that are unpopular in today’s conservative, politically-charged climate, in violation of his First Amendment right to free speech.”
As reported by Texas Scorecard before his firing, a social media post showed Alter addressing the virtual Revolutionary Socialism Conference.
“[W]ithout organization, how can anyone expect to overthrow the most bloodthirsty, profit-driven, mad organization in the history of the world, that of the U.S. government?” he asked. This followed his discussion of why he found political organization—in this case through the Democratic Socialists of America—insufficient.
The influence of Texas State professors can reach into K-12 classrooms statewide. Alter mentioned that Texas State is the largest teacher-training college in Texas.
When asked, the university informed Texas Scorecard the matter was being investigated.
Texas State University President Kelly Damphousse announced shortly thereafter that the university had terminated Alter. “After a thorough review was conducted of the video recordings of the statements, it became clear to me that their actions amounted to serious professional and personal misconduct,” he stated. “Conduct that advocates for inciting violence is directly contrary to the values of Texas State University. I cannot and will not tolerate such behavior.”
Alter’s attorneys argued that he “spoke in his individual capacity and did not represent his opinions as those of Texas State University.” They referred to the individual who recorded his remarks as a “self-described fascist influencer” who recorded Dr. Alter without his permission.
Texas law requires one-party consent for recordings, meaning if you are a party to the interaction, you may record without the knowledge or consent of the other party.
Alter’s attorneys state they intend to file suit against the university next week.
Neither Texas State University nor its parent organization, the Texas State University System, responded to a request for comment about the impending lawsuit before publication.
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