Auburn Students Brave Rain to Press GOP Chairman on Issues

Auburn University students gathered on Cater Lawn to challenge John Wahl, Chairman of the Alabama Republican Party (ALGOP), in a face-to-face forum covering topics from the economy and free speech to gun rights and education.

Despite the rainy weather, over 30 students participated in the event, which ran from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and was hosted by the Auburn University College Republicans (AUCR).

Wahl praised the turnout.

“I was incredibly encouraged by the number of students who showed up to have real conversations about the issues shaping our country,” he said. “What we saw yesterday was the best of what political engagement should look like—people coming together to ask tough questions, share their perspectives, and learn from one another in a respectful way.”

He also stressed the need for party leaders to meet students where they are.

“Young people are going to inherit the political decisions being made today,” Wahl said. “That’s why it’s so important that leaders are willing to show up, listen, and engage with students directly.… I truly enjoyed talking with Auburn students about why I believe conservative values best equip young people to succeed—by creating opportunity, rewarding hard work, and protecting the freedoms…that allow every individual to reach their full potential.”

The Challenge the Chairman series was launched by the Alabama GOP in 2024 to foster campus conversations and give students direct access to state leadership. Wahl noted that Auburn’s event confirms strong student interest in politics.

“These students give me tremendous hope for the future,” he added. “They care deeply about their country, and they want to make a difference. That’s exactly the kind of civic involvement and leadership we need to keep our State—and our nation—strong and free.” 

Wahl also warned against ceding campuses to ideological uniformity.

“The Alabama Republican Party is not going to surrender our college campuses to liberal professors or one-sided ideology,” he said. “We are going to engage with students, share our message, and make sure they understand what the GOP truly stands for—freedom, liberty, economic opportunity, and safety.… Conservative values empower people to build their own futures and strengthen our communities…that’s a message young people deserve to hear.”

He commended the AUCR leadership, saying,

“The Auburn College Republicans did an outstanding job making this event a success. Their leadership and enthusiasm are inspiring, and I’m proud of the example they’re setting for young conservatives across Alabama.”

AUCR Vice President Ty Torbert echoed Wahl’s sentiments:.

“It is of vital importance that the Chairman of the Alabama Republican Party interacts with students. We are the future of this state and the future of the party. … Many of the students he speaks with may go on to graduate and work in politics. If not, I am sure the vast majority of participants will vote. Through participating in this event, I hope that everyone will broaden their perspectives. We must learn to listen to others and engage in civil discourse. It is okay to disagree with each other, if we do so respectfully…. All around the nation, we are seeing a disheartening amount of political violence. Our country was built on the freedom of speech, and we should be able to do so without fear of violence.”

The event is part of a broader outreach by ALGOP to bring Challenge the Chairman to campuses across Alabama, aiming for more open dialogue between students and party leaders.

“The future of our nation depends on informed, principled leaders who are not afraid to stand up for what’s right,” Wahl concluded. “That starts with students — and it starts with conversations like these.”

For more information on the Auburn University College Republicans, follow them on Facebook.