GOP claims to support free speech until you actually use it
Thomas Maddox
Opinion contributor
A few weeks ago, I wrote an op-ed in the Enquirer challenging my political party ("We need smarter people, not louder ones, in the Republican Party," May 25). I argued that nominating candidates based on loyalty or personal connections, rather than broad electability, is exactly why Republicans keep losing urban centers like Cincinnati.
The piece struck a nerve. It was picked up by MSN, and almost immediately, the backlash began. At my university, I was removed from the College Republicans group chat − no warning, no explanation. My only offense? Speaking my mind.
This isn’t just campus drama. It’s a symptom of something deeper within the GOP. We claim to champion free speech, but punish it when it’s inconvenient. We say we want young leaders, but only if we play it safe. On too many campuses, and in too many local races, "leadership" has become a euphemism for groupthink.
So, I’ve decided to stop asking for a seat at the table ...
https://www.cincinnati.com/story/opinion/contributors/2025/06/12/republicans-punish-free-speech-when-its-inconvenient-gop/84121068007/