U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, District 21 | Official U.S. House headshot
U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, District 21 | Official U.S. House headshot
Washington, D.C. – In a recent development reported by the New York Post, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik and all New York House GOP lawmakers have demanded the immediate resignation of Columbia University President Dr. Minouche Shafik. This call for resignation comes after documented incidents of antisemitic harassment and calls for violence against Jewish students on Columbia’s campus.
Stefanik and other members of the House Education and Workforce Committee confronted Shafik over her perceived failures in protecting Jewish students from intimidation and harassment by anti-Israel demonstrators. The incidents were exacerbated by a surprise terror attack by Hamas, leading to heightened tensions on campus.
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, a Jewish individual, criticized Shafik for what he described as "waving the white flag" by choosing to hold classes remotely, implying an inability to ensure the safety of Jewish students on campus. Blakeman emphasized the need for Shafik to take control of the situation or resign from her position.
Blakeman expressed concerns about the rise in antisemitism at Columbia, stating, "She has lost any courage. She has lost her moral compass." He further highlighted the liberal and anti-American sentiments among some professors, contributing to a hostile environment for Jewish students.
In response to Shafik's congressional testimony, GOP lawmakers accused her of a "cover-up" regarding the lack of repercussions for a professor accused of supporting terrorism. They criticized Shafik for failing to enforce accountability and suggested that her statements lacked substance.
The situation at Columbia University has sparked national attention and raised questions about campus safety and academic integrity. The demand for Shafik's resignation underscores the seriousness of the allegations and the need for swift action to address concerns within the university community.