Illinois’ Wheaton College has long traded on its reputation as a doctrinally conservative Christian institution. Its landing page promises prospective students that they will “find [their] Christ-centered calling” at the school. And its alumni list reads like who’s who of evangelical leaders.
But the college is unwilling to honor the accomplishments of one famous son because of his association with the Trump administration.
On Thursday, the Senate confirmed Russ Vought, who has a strong pro-life record, to lead the Office of Management and Budget, with all 53 Republicans voting in his favor. The following day, Wheaton’s social media accounts commended Vought, posting that the school “congratulates and prays” for him.
But by Saturday morning, negative comments left by Facebook users prompted Wheaton to retract the post.
“The recognition and prayer is something we would typically do for any graduate who reached that level of government,” Wheaton said in a statement. “However, the political situation surrounding [Vought’s] appointment led to a significant concern expressed online. It was not our intention to embroil the College in a political discussion or dispute.”
The college added that “as a non-profit institution, [it] does not make political endorsements,” even though its congratulatory message was