News Summary
Oakland University Police are investigating a disturbing social media post by a student that called for violence against GOP candidate Mike Steger. The post included a photo of Steger alongside a Trump supporter with a caption advocating for violence. The Oakland County Republican Party condemned the post, urging the university to expel the student. While the university affirms First Amendment rights, it denounces violence and hate speech. The incident highlights ongoing political tensions as Steger campaigns for Michigan’s 11th Congressional District seat in the 2026 elections.
Oakland, Michigan – The Oakland University Police are currently investigating a troubling social media post made by a student that called for violence against GOP congressional candidate Mike Steger. The post, which surfaced recently, included a photograph depicting Steger alongside a man wearing a Trump sweatshirt, with the alarming caption “can we execute these two things.” This explicit call for violence has raised serious concerns within the community and among political figures.
Following the post’s publication, the Oakland County Republican Party promptly reported the incident. Oakland County GOP Chair Vance Patrick took to social media to condemn the student’s actions and requested that the university immediately expel the individual responsible. Patrick emphasized the need for universities to maintain environments free of “violence, intimidation, and hatred.” He expressed the Republican Party’s strong opposition to all forms of political violence and intimidation, highlighting the importance of respectful political discourse.
Mike Steger, who is campaigning for the Michigan’s 11th Congressional District seat in the upcoming 2026 elections, along with other concerned parties, reached out to Oakland University on October 9 to voice their apprehensions regarding the threatening social media post. In their response, Oakland University acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and confirmed that law enforcement authorities are actively investigating the matter. However, due to federal student privacy laws (FERPA), the university is restricted from discussing specific actions taken regarding the accused student.
While the university supports First Amendment rights among its students, it has also made it clear that it does not condone violence, threats, or unlawful harassment. The institution denounced hate speech, asserting that such behaviors are inconsistent with its values. The investigation remains ongoing, and further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
In the broader context, this incident occurs as U.S. Representative Haley Stevens has announced that she will not be seeking re-election, as she prepares to run for the U.S. Senate in 2026. Steger is looking to fill the vacancy in the 11th Congressional District, which encompasses parts of Oakland County, including municipalities such as Auburn Hills, Berkley, and Birmingham, among others.
As the situation develops, community members, university students, and political entities are closely monitoring the outcome of the investigation. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the heightened political tensions in the current climate and the need for responsible discourse and respect among differing viewpoints. Further developments will be communicated by the university and local law enforcement as they proceed with their inquiries.
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