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Sen. John Fetterman Critiques Columbia University Over Antisemitism
Senator John Fetterman (D-Pa.) has publicly condemned Columbia University for its failure to manage rising antisemitic rhetoric on campus, a situation that has escalated to the point where the university faces the loss of $400 million in federal funding.
In a post shared on the social platform X, Fetterman stated, “Columbia let antisemitism run amok to cater to lunatic fringe and paid provocateurs. Leadership allowed those assholes to take over the campus and terrorize Jewish students.” In his assertion, he expressed support for the government’s measures in response to the university’s inaction.
The decision to revoke funding was announced earlier in the day by several federal entities, including the Department of Justice, the Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Education, and the U.S. General Services Administration. They cited “continued inaction in the face of persistent harassment of Jewish students” as the primary reason for their actions.
The atmosphere on campus has been particularly charged since the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, which sparked widespread pro-Palestine demonstrations and a charged discourse surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict.
In response to the federal agencies’ announcement, a university spokesperson indicated that Columbia is actively reviewing the situation and addressing the concerns raised by the government. “We are reviewing the announcement from the federal agencies and pledge to work with the federal government to restore Columbia’s federal funding,” the spokesperson explained. “We take Columbia’s legal obligations seriously and understand how serious this announcement is and are committed to combating antisemitism and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our students, faculty, and staff.”
Fetterman has been vocally critical of the university’s handling of protests and previously urged the resignation of Columbia’s former president over the situation, which he characterized as untenable for Jewish students. He stated, “I fully agree with the White House — these ‘protests’ are antisemitic, unconscionable, and dangerous. Add some tiki torches and it’s Charlottesville for these Jewish students.”
In a pointed message to former President Minouche Shafik, Fetterman urged her to either fulfill her responsibilities or resign to make way for more decisive leadership. Shafik eventually resigned, citing threats and harassment directed at her as a contributing factor.
The Trump administration has emphasized a commitment to addressing antisemitism in educational institutions, with Secretary of Education Linda McMahon stating that the department plans to withdraw funding from institutions that do not comply with antidiscrimination laws.
“In the wake of the October 7 events, Jewish students have faced ongoing violence, intimidation, and harassment, all while being overlooked by those responsible for their protection,” McMahon remarked in a statement. “Universities must comply with all federal antidiscrimination laws if they are to receive federal funds. Columbia has neglected this obligation, and today we make it clear that such inaction will no longer be tolerated.”
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