Texas Gov. Greg Abbott confirmed that the University of Texas at Austin dismissed psychology professor Art Markman from his administrative role as senior vice provost for academic affairs due to “ideological differences.”

Markman announced his dismissal on Wednesday in a post on LinkedIn. He has worked at UT Austin for 27 years and joined the provost’s office in 2021. He also co-hosts the Two Guys on Your Head podcast on KUT News.

Abbott said on X that “Texas is targeting professors who are more focused on pushing leftist ideologies rather than preparing students to lead our nation.”

The decision follows similar actions involving faculty at other state universities. Texas State professor Tom Alter lost his position after speaking at an online socialist conference. As previously reported by The Dallas Express, Texas A&M professor Melissa McCoul was dismissed earlier this year after a video of her discussing gender identities with a student went viral.

Markman’s removal also comes as UT Austin reviews a White House initiative that could give universities a financial advantage in accessing federal funds. The compact calls on participating schools to ensure “no violence against conservative ideas” and to revise governance structures promoting open discourse.

UT System officials said they are “enthusiastically” reviewing the proposal.

Concerns about academic freedom have grown across Texas campuses. The UT System recently began auditing gender studies courses, and students in Austin and Dallas filed a lawsuit challenging a state law they claim limits free speech on college grounds.

Markman stated that he remains on the faculty within the College of Liberal Arts. “I’m focusing on gratitude throughout this process,” he said to KUT News, adding that he would rather not “get caught up in these political discussions.”

A university spokesperson declined to comment, citing personnel policies.

UT Austin named psychology professor Juan M. Dominguez as interim senior vice provost for academic affairs.