House Speaker Mike Johnson is leading an effort to combat antisemitism on college campuses by calling for accountability from professors and students. He believes that both groups need to be held responsible for their actions, including involvement in protests supporting “evil.” University leaders, including Harvard president Claudine Gay and University of Pennsylvania president Liz Magill, have faced backlash for their handling of the issue. Johnson has also met with Columbia president Minouche Shafik, whom he has called on to resign. He has announced a full House effort to address Hamas agitators on campus and is considering cutting federal funding for universities that fail to address antisemitism.
A bill to expand the definition of antisemitism was passed through Congress with bipartisan support, but faces an uncertain future in the Senate. Johnson believes that the issue of antisemitism on campuses is clear-cut, as evidenced by protesters waving Hezbollah and Hamas flags, chanting antisemitic slogans, and harassing Jewish students. He has called for President Biden to send in the National Guard to restore order on campuses, comparing the situation to President Eisenhower’s decision to send federal troops to integrate schools in Little Rock in 1957.
Despite facing calls for his removal from far-right lawmakers, Johnson remains confident that he will retain his position as House Speaker. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene has led a rebellion against Johnson due to his support for $60 billion in US aid to Ukraine. Johnson believes that removing him from his position would be detrimental to the party and the country, especially at a crucial time. He attributes his change in stance on Ukraine to new intelligence he received after becoming Speaker, highlighting the urgency of the situation for the country’s defense.
Johnson’s efforts to combat antisemitism on college campuses have been met with both support and criticism. The issue of accountability for professors and students involved in antisemitic activities has been a focal point of his campaign. He aims to hold universities accountable by potentially cutting federal funding for non-compliance with anti-discrimination policies. Johnson has also called for a broader definition of antisemitism to better address the issue within educational institutions.
The House Speaker has emphasized the severity of the situation on campuses, citing specific incidents of harassment and violence against Jewish students. He believes that federal intervention, potentially involving the National Guard, is necessary to restore order and protect the civil rights of students. Johnson has faced challenges within his own party due to his stance on Ukraine, with some members pushing for his removal from office. Despite this opposition, he remains steadfast in his commitment to addressing antisemitism and other pressing issues facing the country.
Overall, Johnson’s campaign against antisemitism on college campuses reflects his dedication to upholding civil rights and promoting accountability among educators and students. His efforts have garnered support from some within Congress, while also facing opposition from those who disagree with his policies on other issues. Despite these challenges, Johnson remains resolute in his mission to combat hatred and discrimination in educational settings, signaling a commitment to ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all students.
