House Republicans from New York demanded on Monday that Columbia University’s president, amidst safety concerns for Jewish students due to pro-Palestinian protests, step down from her position. Led by House Republican Conference Chairwoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY), the New York delegation sent a letter to Columbia President Minouche Shafik requesting her resignation after the university shifted to remote learning on the eve of Passover.
The lawmakers criticized Shafik’s leadership, attributing the campus unrest to her policies and decisions. They highlighted the ongoing protests where students have set up tents on campus, demanding divestment from companies with ties to Israel. Despite police intervention and suspensions, the protests have persisted for nearly a week.
Shafik, during congressional testimony, condemned anti-Semitism on campus but later informed police that participating students were suspended for trespassing. Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-NC) called for expulsions, citing widespread anti-Semitic harassment and disruptions to the learning environment.
The New York GOP delegation accused Shafik of failing to enforce policies and hold accountable those responsible for disruptions. They referenced a Columbia professor’s controversial remarks in support of terrorism as evidence of Shafik’s failure to address campus issues effectively.
The lawmakers concluded their letter by urging Shafik to resign, holding her responsible for the campus turmoil and calling for restoration of order at Columbia University. Other signatories to the letter included several Republican representatives from New York.
Meanwhile, Jewish House Democrats, including Rep. Dan Goldman (D-NY), visited the Columbia campus to show solidarity with Jewish students facing harassment. Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-FL) emphasized the importance of protecting students and urged the university president not to repeat the actions of other presidents who resigned amid controversy.
