After a meeting with Columbia University President Minouche Shafik, House Speaker Mike Johnson called on her to resign if she could not stop protests related to the Gaza war and threatened to cut federal funding for colleges that do not protect Jewish students. Johnson, flanked by Republican colleagues, expressed concern over the rise of hatred and antisemitism on campuses and called for action to be taken against those perpetrating violence. The protesters at Columbia University heckled Johnson and chanted slogans in support of Palestine as he called for Shafik’s resignation.
Johnson’s delegation met with Shafik and university officials to address the harassment faced by Jewish students at Columbia and to urge an end to the pro-Palestinian encampment on campus. The speaker emphasized the importance of allowing a free marketplace of ideas but stated that the protests at Columbia had crossed the line into harassment. Johnson suggested that almost every American would agree with the need to address the situation on campus. The Columbia University Board of Trustees expressed strong support for President Shafik, commending her approach to resolving conflict while condemning harassment and discrimination.
Recent protests have led to a rabbi advising Jewish students to leave campus for their safety, prompting the university to implement hybrid learning. Students have reported being harassed and intimidated while moving across campus. Johnson highlighted the need for quick containment of the threats and intimidation. He mentioned plans to call President Joe Biden to address the situation and stated that if the issue persists, the National Guard may be needed. Johnson also threatened colleges that cannot control the problems, indicating that they may lose taxpayer dollars.
The demonstrations at Columbia occurred following Shafik’s testimony before the House Education Committee about antisemitism on campus. Chair Virginia Foxx, who leads the committee, criticized Shafik for allowing a situation where “the inmates are running the asylum” and urged her to act to create a safe environment for Jewish students. Members of the New York Republican delegation, including Reps. Mike Lawler, Nicole Malliotakis, and Anthony D’Esposito, joined Johnson at Columbia and emphasized the need for Shafik to resign. Lawler criticized Shafik for losing control of the campus and called on Congress to take action if necessary to ensure the safety of all students.
