A federal judge has ordered the University of Florida to reinstate law student Preston Damsky, who was expelled following antisemitic social media posts. Chief U.S. District Judge Allen Winsor ruled that the university failed to demonstrate that Damsky’s statements constituted “true threats” and that his expulsion likely violated his First Amendment rights. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/judge-orders-readmission-law-student-who-posted-jews-must-be-abolished-2025-11-25/?utm_source=openai))
In March, Damsky posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, stating, “Jews must be abolished by any means necessary.” This led to his suspension in April and subsequent expulsion in October. The university argued that his statements, along with academic papers promoting white nationalist views, caused fear and disruption among students and faculty. ([alligator.org](https://www.alligator.org/article/2025/11/judge-rules-in-favor-of-uf-law-student-expelled-over-antisemetic-posts?utm_source=openai))
Judge Winsor noted that while Damsky’s views are offensive, they do not indicate an intent to act on them. He emphasized that the university cannot override constitutional freedoms to maintain campus order. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/judge-orders-readmission-law-student-who-posted-jews-must-be-abolished-2025-11-25/?utm_source=openai))
Damsky’s attorney, Anthony Sabatini, hailed the ruling as a victory for free speech. The university has declined to comment on the decision and retains the option to appeal the injunction. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/judge-orders-readmission-law-student-who-posted-jews-must-be-abolished-2025-11-25/?utm_source=openai))
This case underscores the ongoing tension between upholding free speech rights and maintaining a safe, inclusive campus environment. The university community remains divided, with some expressing concern over the implications of the ruling for campus safety and inclusivity. ([alligator.org](https://www.alligator.org/article/2025/11/judge-rules-in-favor-of-uf-law-student-expelled-over-antisemetic-posts?utm_source=openai))