When I arrived at the University of North Carolina-Asheville in 2024, I stood firm in my belief that I was a liberal. I was under the impression liberalism was about tolerance and acceptance for all.
Unfortunately, while on campus, I’ve frequently been a target for bullying and verbal harassment — and not by the party one might think would be responsible.
As a political science major, I had a strong desire to stay politically active on campus, but I wanted to study all sides of the spectrum. I made the choice to join both the College Democrats and Turning Point USA this past spring semester of 2025.
Turning Point USA welcomed my unique perspective with open arms. Their president was actually thrilled that I am a Democrat and introduced me as such. She introduced me to the other members and they seemed excited to see that I was willing to talk to them.
I would attend club meetings and debate other members. Not only were my ideas heard, but I was debated civilly and engaged post-meetings by many members, who treated me as a colleague and not an opponent. They were genuinely invested in my thoughts and ideas.