Michael Knowles and Brad Polumbo debated the question “should transgenderism be regulated by law?” as chants from protestors outside the building echoed throughout the O’Hara Ballroom Tuesday evening.

Pitt’s College Republicans, sponsored by the Intercollegiate Studies Institute, has found a new participant to debate conservative political commentator Michael Knowles. They’ve also changed the topic of the on-campus debate.

Deirdre McCloskey has dropped out of a debate at Pitt against political commentator Michael Knowles on “transgenderism and womanhood,” set for next Tuesday. She said Knowles is “hate-mongering” and “uninterested in finding the truth.”

Two conservative student groups hosting controversial events at Pitt acquired funding for the events through outside organizations instead of seeking assistance from the University.

Right-wing commentator Cabot Phillips spoke with conservative students at Pitt Friday evening, saying “there is nothing that gives you privilege about being a white male at a college campus.” About 25 people attended the event hosted by Pitt’s Turning Point USA chapter.

One of the most contentious issues at a debate between Pitt’s College Republicans and College Democrats on Monday night came when College Republicans vice president Joshua Minsky and College Democrats president Amanda Thornton debated whether abortion is a human right.

More than 6,000 Pitt students have signed a petition to cancel three scheduled “anti-trans” events that will be held at Pitt, as some trans and queer students raise concerns about the “potential for violence” on campus.

As the midterm election approaches, members of the Pitt College Republicans club say the economy, the Second Amendment and fracking are some of the most important issues on their minds.

The Clemson College Republicans condemning a drag show politicizes a fun university event and alienates queer and transgender students.

While Joe Biden supporters celebrated his Saturday victory in the 2020 presidential election, President Donald Trump’s supporters had to face the reality of the Republican president losing reelection. While Biden may have turned Pennsylvania blue, Republicans still won congressional seats, giving Pennsylvania Republicans something to celebrate for themselves.