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Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin heckled at graduation speech

Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin was heckled by students at George Mason University this week while del෴ivering the commencement address at the school.

Yougkin’s selection as commencement speaker sparked opposition from some students who cited his support for “anti-trans legislation,” efforts to abolish what they called “racial equity curricula” and book bans, according to a petition protesting his invitation to speak which attracted more

While most students applauded the Republican governor, others held up signs reading “Mason Demands Action,” and a few booed him and walked out of the event.

“I think it feels very empowering,” Jason Motley, a protester who bounced on the speech . “I think whatever person he may be, his political views just don’t align with the betterment of this university.”

Some students heckled and jeered the governor and walked out of the ceremony. Getty Images
Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin delivering the keynote address at George Mason University. Getty Images
A faculty member carries a protest sign before Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin (R-VA) spoke at George Mason University May 18, 2023 in Fairfax, Virginia. Getty Images

“His beliefs don’t align with the university and a lot of beliefs in this institution,” a second student Dunni Oni told the network. “My big thing is ensuring that Mason students at large feel safe, heard and protected, and he does not ensure that.”