The American Association of University Professors’ strategy on academic freedom and governance is driving a pitched internal debate, with some longtime supporters accusing the organization of alienating allies. Three AAUP leaders publicly defended their approach while critics say the group’s tactics risk fragmenting the coalition that defends faculty rights. The dispute centers on how aggressively the AAUP should confront administrations and external political pressures — from donor influence to state-level legislation — while preserving broad institutional support. The conversation has reverberated across campus senates and faculty unions. Higher-education leaders say the debate is shaping advocacy tactics ahead of legislative and accreditation fights, with potential consequences for tenure protections and institutional governance norms.