Student protests over the war in Gaza have become a challenge for President Joe Biden, who is facing calls to cut off U.S. support for Israel. The protests at Columbia University and other campuses have raised questions about Biden’s support among young voters and his handling of the conflict in the Middle East. Biden’s aides have had to work to minimize disruptions from antiwar protesters, who have forced his motorcade to change routes and thrown red substances near his home in Delaware.
More than 100 pro-Palestinian demonstrators were arrested at Columbia University, with similar protests occurring at other campuses. Some Jewish students have reported feeling unsafe on campus due to anti-Semitic chants and messages. The White House denounced the surge of anti-Semitism on college campuses and called for steps to ensure the safety of Jewish students and faculty. Biden condemned the anti-Semitic protests while also advocating for an understanding of the situation with Palestinians.
Former President Donald Trump blamed Biden for the unrest at Columbia, claiming that Biden bears the responsibility for the protests. Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson planned to visit the school to meet with Jewish students, indicating the political significance of the situation. Biden has been endorsed by leading youth activist organizations and focused his campaign on key social issues, such as defending abortion rights and combating climate change. Despite the protests, some believe that the outrage over the war will not significantly impact Biden’s chances against Trump in the upcoming election.
Democratic pollster Cornell Belcher expressed skepticism that campus demonstrations over Gaza would have a significant political influence, questioning the representativeness of the protestors in the broader American audience. Historian Angus Johnston noted that while the current protests may not match the size and intensity of 1960s demonstrations, student protests have historically shaped national debates. Biden has tried to navigate the protests by condemning anti-Semitic behavior while advocating for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Gaza. The situation remains fluid as Biden continues to face challenges from both pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel factions.
