Capital District Times

House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik has penned an opinion piece in The New York Post, expressing her concerns over the rise in antisemitic attacks at Columbia University and the failure of the institution to ensure the safety of its Jewish community. Stefanik's article comes ahead of a House Committee on Education and the Workforce hearing with Columbia University President Minouche Shafik about the issue.

Stefanik highlighted the recent attacks on Israel by Iran and its proxies, stating, "The unprecedented and continuous attacks on Israel’s very existence have shocked the conscience of the world." She pointed out the deep-seated antisemitism in American colleges and universities, noting the specific challenges faced by Columbia University.

The congresswoman criticized Columbia's response to antisemitic incidents on its campus, including the university's failure to enforce rules on demonstrations and its inadequate condemnation of hateful rhetoric. Stefanik emphasized the need for real change and action at institutions like Columbia, stating, "Implementing half-measures are not enough."

Stefanik also referenced a previous hearing where she questioned the presidents of Harvard, MIT, and UPenn about antisemitism on their campuses, leading to the ousting of two presidents and an investigation into antisemitism at universities.

In conclusion, Stefanik asserted, "We will bring Columbia leadership in front of Congress and hold them accountable for these incidents and their inadequate response to our investigation." She emphasized the responsibility of universities to ensure the safety of their students and pledged to continue rigorous oversight of taxpayer dollars that support higher education institutions until antisemitism is eradicated.

The full article by Congresswoman Elise Stefanik can be found on The New York Post's website.