House Committee Criticizes Columbia University for Handling of Antisemitic Unrest

A House committee has released findings this week that highlight what its Republican chairwoman, Rep. Virginia Foxx, describes as Columbia University’s failure to adequately discipline students involved in antisemitic incidents earlier this year. Foxx, along with fellow committee member Rep. Aaron Bean, criticized the university's leadership for their perceived inaction, labeling them as "spineless" and accusing them of allowing dangerous behavior to persist without consequences. Foxx expressed her dismay over the administration's lack of accountability, stating that the failure to discipline students who violated university rules is "disgraceful and unacceptable." She pointed out that, nearly four months after the takeover of Hamilton Hall, most of the involved students remain in good academic standing, which she argues only encourages further misconduct. Foxx emphasized that unpunished bad behavior undermines the expectation of good conduct. Bean echoed these sentiments, asserting that the university's leniency towards the students involved in the unrest effectively grants them a "get out of jail free card." He criticized the administration for not taking stronger action against those who should face expulsion or legal repercussions for their actions. Foxx reiterated that no student engaging in criminal behavior or fostering an environment of bigotry should receive any leniency. In response to the committee's findings, a Columbia University spokesperson stated that the institution is committed to combating antisemitism and is actively working on the disciplinary process for the students involved, including those arrested during the April 30 takeover of Hamilton Hall.