Jerry Falwell Jr.'s uncritical support for President Donald Trump has been characterized as a repudiation of Christian values. The leadership's support for Trump has been an issue since his candidacy: a number of students protested the university's ties with Trump during his campaign and were critical of LU president Jerry Falwell, Jr. over his staunch support of Trump. Mark DeMoss, chief of staff of Falwell, was forced to resign from Liberty's board of trustees after criticizing the university's close affiliation with Trump. Liberty University rescinded a speaking invitation of Jonathan Merritt, an alumnus of the school, after he criticized Liberty University. Liberty expelled Christian author Jonathan Martin from campus due to his repeated criticisms of the university's affiliation with Trump.