Controversial Twitch streamer Hasan Piker delivered a speech at the University of Texas in Austin on Wednesday evening, proceeding despite significant backlash from Texas politicians including Governor Greg Abbott, Senator Ted Cruz and Representative Henry Cuellar. The University Democrats student group hosted the event, though they were forced to reduce capacity considerably after the university refused to provide a larger venue and an off-campus location withdrew its offer following internal discussions.

Piker opened his speech with university chants and thanked students for attending amid the controversy, noting that the event was originally intended for 3,000 people but had been substantially reduced due to venue constraints. During his remarks, he addressed allegations that he is anti-American by defending his right to free speech and criticising what he characterised as selective restrictions on progressive voices compared to those on the right. Piker focused his criticism on Republicans, President Trump, immigration enforcement and Israel, whilst Texas lawmakers who condemned the event described him as an "America-hating Marxist" and accused him of sympathising with terrorism.