Capital District Times

Congresswoman Elise Stefanik has expressed her concerns regarding a report from the Education and Workforce Committee on antisemitism in universities. She emphasized her ongoing efforts to combat antisemitism on college campuses following a congressional hearing with university presidents last December. Stefanik commended Chairwoman Virginia Foxx for leading an investigation that revealed what she described as universities' failures to address antisemitic behavior among students and faculty.

"This report clearly shows the moral bankruptcy of university leaders to take decisive action and even confirms personal attacks against me for pursuing their accountability," stated Stefanik. She criticized universities for not condemning or disciplining those involved in antisemitic conduct, adding, "These universities are in for a reckoning for decades to come that will shatter their ivory towers."

Chairwoman Virginia Foxx echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for accountability and urging the executive branch to enforce laws protecting Jewish students. "The explosion of antisemitism on college campuses has exposed the moral rot at many of our so-called elite institutions," said Foxx.

The investigation covered several prestigious institutions, including Harvard University, Yale University, Columbia University, and others. The report highlighted negligence in responding to student encampments and a lack of support for Jewish students facing antisemitic hate.

Stefanik has been active in advocating for Jewish students' safety on campus. In October 2023, she led a letter demanding Harvard's president condemn certain student organizations after blaming Israel for terrorist attacks by Hamas. Her actions continued through 2024 with resolutions condemning violence glorification on campuses and calling out university administrations' failures.

Throughout this period, multiple university presidents resigned following pressure from Congress and investigations into their handling of antisemitism allegations. Stefanik introduced various legislative measures aimed at holding educational institutions accountable and participated in discussions both domestically and internationally about combating antisemitism.