Columbia University President Minouche Shafik is facing increasing pressure to step down as protests intensify on campus regarding the conflict in Gaza.
Over 100 pro-Palestinian demonstrators were arrested for their refusal to vacate an encampment that was reestablished on campus last week while Shafik provided her testimony before the House education panel. After Shafik underwent more than three hours of questioning, Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) issued a statement on Sunday demanding the resignation of President Shafik, stating that Columbia University requires new leadership.
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On Monday, numerous lawmakers from both the Republican and Democratic parties joined Stefanik, including all of the House Republicans from New York.
Reps. Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Mark Alford (R-Mo.), and Anthony D’Esposito (R-N.Y.) are also calling for her resignation. In response to Shafik’s announcement on Monday that all Columbia classes would be conducted online, Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-N.Y.) expressed her belief on X that Shafik’s decision to switch to virtual learning is evidence of her inability to address the issue of antisemitism on her campus and ensure the safety of her students.
Sens. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and John Fetterman (D-Pa.) have both urged Shafik to resign from his position. Fetterman drew a comparison between the current situation faced by Jewish students on campus and the 2017 Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville.
Fetterman expressed his dismay by stating, “It’s like Charlottesville for these Jewish students once the tiki torches are added.” He directly addressed Columbia President Minouche Shafik, urging her to fulfill her responsibilities or step down from her position, allowing Columbia to find a more suitable replacement.
After the protests, campus authorities summoned New York law enforcement, resulting in the suspension of multiple students.
Shafik expressed in a statement on Monday that these tensions have been manipulated and amplified by individuals who are not affiliated with Columbia and have come to campus to pursue their own agendas. He emphasized the need for a reset.
