House Speaker Calls for Columbia University President to Resign Over Handling of Anti-Israel Demonstrations
House Speaker Mike Johnson is leading the charge for Columbia University President Minouche Shafik to resign following her handling of anti-Israel demonstrations on campus. Johnson, during a radio interview with Hugh Hewitt, criticized Shafik as a “very weak” and “inept” leader who has failed to guarantee the safety of Jewish students on campus.
In a joint letter on Monday, New York House Republicans called for Shafik to step down, and Johnson announced plans for a press conference at Columbia University later today with his colleagues to further push for her resignation.
“We have Jewish students who have actually been physically assaulted, they have been harassed, they have been intimidated and threatened… we need to revoke federal funding to these universities if they cannot keep control,” Johnson said. “We need to revoke these student visas for these violent protesters. You don’t have a right to be here and to do this, but Jewish students have a right to be able to peacefully attend classes.”
Johnson also criticized the Biden administration for its handling of the situation, accusing them of caving to the “antisemitic” wing of the party and failing to provide strong leadership on the issue.
The tensions at Columbia University have escalated in recent days, with student protesters dismantling and removing tents at an encampment on campus. Johnson emphasized the need for accountability and called on all leaders and citizens to speak out against the unacceptable behavior seen on college campuses across the country.
As the situation continues to unfold, Johnson and his colleagues are determined to address the issue and ensure the safety and well-being of all students on campus.