A Washington State University instructor’s alleged assault on a student wearing a pro-Trump hat has sparked outrage. Patrick Mahoney, a PhD student and instructor, was arrested for attacking engineering student Jay Sani over his “Take America Back” cap.
Breitbart reported that Mahoney, a PhD candidate in WSU’s School of Politics, Philosophy and Public Affairs, allegedly targeted Sani for his hat supporting President Donald Trump.
The confrontation began when Mahoney grabbed the cap and tossed it into the street. This act of aggression set off a chain of events that ended in violence.
Sani, attempting to defend himself after losing his hat, faced further hostility. Mahoney and another suspect, Gerald Hoff, allegedly grabbed Sani and forced him to the ground. The situation escalated as Mahoney reportedly slammed Sani’s head into the pavement.
Video surveillance reportedly recorded the assault, providing evidence of the incident. Sani, despite the attack, raised his hands to shoulder height, signaling he did not wish to escalate the fight. Mahoney’s actions, however, showed no such restraint.
During police questioning, Mahoney admitted to grabbing Sani’s hat. He claimed Sani responded with a “body check” or “grab,” which Mahoney said prompted him to take Sani down. This justification has done little to quell the backlash against his conduct.
Mahoney’s verbal hostility was evident as he reportedly told Sani, “Fk you or fk off,” after the assault. Such language underscores the apparent animus behind the attack. The incident has left many questioning the environment at WSU.
Mahoney’s own words to police suggest a political motive. He told an officer he had seen Sani on campus before, describing him as a “right-wing dude” with a “Make America Great Again hat.” This admission points to a targeted act driven by ideological differences.
Mahoney also remarked to the officer about Sani’s hat, saying, “You’re wearing that hat, you wanted someone to look at it, right?” The statement implies Sani’s choice of attire provoked the assault. Many see this as an attempt to blame the victim for expressing his views.
Both Mahoney and Hoff were arrested for assault following the incident. The arrests have brought attention to the need for accountability in academic settings. Students should feel safe expressing their political beliefs without fear of violence.
WSU swiftly suspended Mahoney from all teaching duties. The university’s decisive action reflects the seriousness of the allegations. Mahoney’s removal from classes ensures he will not interact with students while the case unfolds.
The incident has sparked broader discussions about free speech on campus. Many conservatives feel that universities often tolerate hostility toward right-leaning students. Sani’s experience has become a rallying point for those demanding change.
Jay Sani, an engineering student, now finds himself at the center of this controversy. His decision to wear a “Take America Back” hat was a simple expression of support for Trump. Instead, it led to a violent encounter that could have been avoided.
The assault on Sani highlights a growing concern among conservatives: their values are under attack in academic spaces. Mahoney’s alleged actions reflect a broader trend of intolerance toward differing viewpoints. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by conservative students.
The video evidence and Mahoney’s admissions leave little room for doubt about the nature of the assault. Sani’s restraint in not escalating the fight further demonstrates his desire to avoid violence. Yet, he was met with aggression for simply wearing a hat.