Controversy at Francis Marion University: Professor Andrew Londo's Online Outburst and Public Scrutiny

Londo, who holds a Ph.D. in Forest Science from Michigan Technological University, previously worked as a Forestry Extension Specialist at The Ohio State University and has a background in silviculture and environmental education. His role at FMU involves leading the newly established Forestry Department, which aims to provide students with practical training in sustainable forest management.

Andrew J. Londo Francis Marion University

However, Londo recently came under fire for comments made on Facebook, where he reportedly described former President Donald Trump as "REALLY DUMB!" in a public outburst. The remarks, captured in screenshots before his profile was deleted, have sparked backlash from conservative circles, who label him a "left-wing agitator" and question his suitability as an educator at a taxpayer-funded institution. FMU, a public university supported by South Carolina state funds, employs Londo in a position some view as potentially obsolete due to accessible online resources and AI tools for forestry knowledge.

Following the controversy, Londo deleted his Facebook profile (previously accessible at facebook.com/andrew.londo.75) on or around February 5, 2026, amid reports of panic over the public exposure. The profile remains indexed in Google search results, though the page itself is no longer active. Critics have suggested that his hiring aligns with diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, implying that tax dollars are funding "pointless positions" or "washed-up careers." They further express concern that Londo's apparent disdain for a significant portion of the U.S. population—over half, by some political metrics—could undermine his ability to fairly educate and inspire students.

This incident raises broader questions about the role of educators in politically polarized times. Can professors with strong partisan views maintain impartiality in the classroom? And in fields like forestry, where environmental science intersects with policy debates (e.g., climate change, ozone depletion, and CO2 emissions), do such roles justify public funding? FMU has not publicly commented on potential disciplinary action, but as a state-supported school, any violations of employment terms could lead to review.

Londo's personal life has also been scrutinized, with photos circulating of him and his spouse, Alexis, enjoying meals allegedly funded by taxpayer dollars—though no evidence supports misuse of funds. As debates over university funding and academic freedom intensify, cases like this highlight tensions between personal expression and professional responsibilities.

For more on FMU's Forestry Department or Londo's background, visit the university's official site or his professional profiles on LinkedIn and ResearchGate.