Rutgers ‘Antifa’ professor who fled US over political atmosphere after Kirk murder pens book on ‘fascist’ US
Rutgers Professor Flees U.S. After Receiving Death Threats, Citing Rise in Political Violence
A Rutgers University professor who authored a handbook advocating for militant anti-fascist action is now abroad with his family following a series of death threats he says compelled him to leave the United States in the aftermath of a high-profile political assassination.
Mark Bray, an academic and author of "Antifa: The Anti-Fascist Handbook," announced his relocation to Spain in connection with a forthcoming memoir titled "Unpunctuated Death Threats: Notes from a Fascist Present," scheduled for release January 19. The book recounts his decision to flee after receiving what he describes as credible threats and having his personal information shared online.
According to the book's publisher, Bray and his family were subjected to federal scrutiny while attempting to depart from the United States, with agents questioning them before ultimately reaching Spain. The publisher described the experience as leaving Bray "a wreck."
The timing of Bray's departure connects directly to the September 10, 2025 assassination of Charlie Kirk, founder of the conservative student organization Turning Point USA. Kirk was shot while speaking at Utah Valley University during what his group described as an "American Comeback Tour" event. Kirk’s death sparked nationwide controversy and highlighted escalating tensions between political factions on college campuses and beyond.
Bray’s decision to leave has reignited debate over his role at Rutgers University, particularly after a petition circulated earlier this year by the university’s Turning Point USA chapter calling for his removal. The petition referenced his past support for donations to the International Anti-Fascist Defense Fund—an organization linked to Antifa activists—which Bray previously allocated half of his book royalties toward.
In social media posts dating back to October, Bray expressed belief in "mass antifascism" as a necessary response to what he views as rising authoritarianism. In one post, he wrote: "Only mass antifascism, legal or not, can save us."
His views have drawn sharp criticism from those who view his advocacy as promoting violence or glorifying extremism. Megan Doyle, a Rutgers sophomore and petition organizer, said in comments to Fox News Digital: "It’s even more difficult to associate him as a victim when he fled the country to Spain, an Antifa hot spot, to promote his book, collect thousands of dollars in donations and yet still remains employed by Rutgers University, funded by New Jersey taxpayers."
"His portrayal of himself as a victim is highly ironic," Doyle added. "Considering his donations to the International Antifa legal defense fund and his advocacy for political violence, it's hard to believe he’s a victim."
Bray’s previous works include "The Anarchist Inquisition: Assassins, Activists, and Martyrs in Spain and France" and "Translating Anarchy: The Anarchism of Occupy Wall Street." His 2017 book on Antifa has been both praised and condemned for its examination of far-left resistance movements and their use of direct action against far-right groups.
Antifa, short for anti-fascist, is a loosely affiliated network of left-wing activists opposed to far-right and white supremacist ideologies. While some members engage in peaceful protest, others have been linked to confrontational or violent tactics, a point often highlighted by critics.
The FBI has previously investigated Antifa-connected individuals in connection with political violence, including the 2019 shooting of Texas police officer Jared Reeves, a case in which two Antifa members were later convicted. Representative Ilhan Omar previously defended those convicted, calling their sentences a "travesty of justice."
In the wake of Kirk’s assassination, Turning Point USA and allies have criticized universities they say fail to protect conservative speakers. At the same time, Bray’s case underscores ongoing concerns about safety for left-leaning academics amid increasing polarization.
Rutgers University has not responded to requests for comment regarding Bray’s current status or employment. Bray did not respond to outreach from Fox News Digital.
Public reactions to his departure and upcoming memoir remain divided. Supporters frame it as a necessary account of living under threat in a climate of political extremism. Critics see it as self-serving justification for promoting radical ideologies while benefiting from academic institutional protections.
As the January release date approaches, "Unpunctuated Death Threats" is expected to draw further attention to the role of protest movements, free speech debates, and personal safety in an increasingly fractured American public square.
