Ogles visit to Belmont University stirs discord over anti-Muslim comments, DEI

U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles’s Monday visit to Belmont University drew protests from students who allege his appearance violated the school’s policies. 

Protesters outside the room in which he spoke at an event sponsored by the Belmont College Republicans shouted, “You aren’t welcome here,  Andy Ogles!” video showed.

Ogles’s appearance came less than a year after he called for a federal investigation into the Nashville school for allegedly rebranding its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), in what he termed “defiance” of an executive order by President Donald Trump banning all diversity programs at colleges.  

In an email sent to the Belmont Office of Student Engagement, Grace McNamara — a student who volunteers with Nashville Indivisible, a progressive organization started after Trump’s 2016 election — singled out Ogles’s recent comments about U.S. Muslims. 

On March 9 , Ogles posted on the social media platform X, “Muslims don’t belong in American society,” one of several anti-Muslim statements McNamara cited. 

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“Congressman Ogles consistently speaks and acts in ways that contradict the values of Belmont University,” McNamara wrote. “Because of this, his presence on campus constitutes a potential threat to the safety and well-being of students.”

McNamara referred to a portion of the student handbook, the Bruin Guide, affirming a commitment to “the dignity and worth of every individual, recognizing that each person is unique and possesses both rights and responsibilities. This commitment to individuals’ worth is expressed through respect for differing opinions, attitudes, and cultures, and fair and just treatment for all.”

The visit was not a university-sponsored program, a spokesperson for the school said in a statement, adding the “university encourages the free exchange of ideas, maintaining expectations for respectful, non-disruptive conduct.”

Ogles told a Lookout reporter that Belmont has been complying with Trump’s directive to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion programs in U.S. colleges and universities since a whistleblower notified him school leaders rebranded the DEI program as Hope, Unity, and Belonging, or HUB. 

“Belmont was initially obstinate and thumbed their nose at the executive order. Vanderbilt University and David Lipscomb complied immediately,” Ogles said. “I understand it might take time to unwind these programs but if you’re getting federal money and giving the finger to the president, it’s not going to turn out well.”

Ogles was elected in 2022, beating Democratic state Sen. Heidi Campbell of Nashville after coming in first place in a 9-candidate Republican primary. In 2024, he defeated Metro Nashville Councilmember Courtney Johnston in the GOP primary before winning reelection. 

In the August primary election, Ogles faces a challenge from former Tennessee Agriculture Commissioner Charlie Hatcher. The winner of that contest will face off in November against the Democratic nominee. 

National Democrats have targeted the seat for a pick-up and are backing Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder, although Molder must win his primary, which includes three other Democrats, most notably Metro Councilmember Mike Cortese.

“A lot of the students there were more Democrat-leaning, which gave the exchange more back ad forth,” said Ogles. “I went to the event knowing there might be spirited debate – but if you had a question you didn’t get answered, write me and I’ll investigate.”

For her part, McNamara gave a less than glowing review to Monday’s event.

“I think what bothered me the most about today is Ogles inability to engage in dialogue with his constituents instead of doing a pseudo town hall,” McNamara said. “Instead of answering questions he waxed poetic about his travels to Israel and the White House Correspondents Dinner,” said McNamara.