House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) called on Columbia University President Minouche Shafik to resign if she “cannot immediately bring order” to the “chaos” of the pro-Palestinian encampment and protests that have caused tension on campus.
“Sadly, Columbia’s administrators have chosen to let the threats, the fear, and the intimidation of the mob rule to overtake American principles like free speech and the free exchange of ideas and the free exercise of religion. They have co-opted First Amendment arguments to protect genocide and to elevate the voices of antisemitism,” Johnson said in a speech at the school in New York City on Wednesday.
“They have proven themselves to be incapable of achieving their basic responsibility, which is keeping students safe,” the Speaker continued. "We just can’t allow this kind of hatred and antisemitism to flourish on our campuses, and it must be stopped in its tracks. Those who are perpetrating this violence should be arrested."
Johnson’s remarks were repeatedly interrupted by boos and heckles.
“I’m here today joining my colleagues and calling on President Shafik to resign if she cannot immediately bring order to this chaos,” Johnson declared, surrounded by members of his Republican conference. “As Speaker of the House, I am committing today that the Congress will not be silent as Jewish students are expected to run for their lives and stay home from their classes hiding in fear.”
