The University of Florida is denying white nationalist Richard Spencer’s request to appear on the Gainesville campus next month, citing the deadly violence at a similar rally last week in Virginia.
After consulting with state police and Governor Rick Scott, UF President Kent Fuchs decided safety concerns outweigh free speech rights, says spokeswoman Janine Sikes.
“We’re very concerned about violence in Gainesville, particularly when there are so many online and social media posts about the next battle field being in Florida.”
Scott did not urge Fuchs to ban Spencer, but pledged to supporter whatever he decided, Sikes says. Scott, a term-limited Republican and strong supporter of President Donald Trump, is widely believed to be running for the U.S. Senate next year.
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