Democratic Rep. Josh Gottheimer of New Jersey on Tuesday said Minouche Shafik, Columbia University’s president, should do more regarding the protests at the school.
But he said “it’s up to the board of trustees” on whether Shafik should resign.
“The president of Columbia must act…Now it’s time for action, not just words,” Gottheimer told CNN’s Kasie Hunt on CNN This Morning. “This is a big moment for the president of Columbia and frankly for presidents across the country.”
“The question for all of these presidents is, ‘Will they step up to the moment and do the right thing?’ And that’s what we should expect from them: To act and not just to talk, not just for words. But actually for action and to make all students feel safe,” he said.
Gottheimer also said having students attend hybrid classes and stay home to feel safe “is not what should be expected at Columbia or any college.”
“I’m expecting the president of Columbia to step up and fix that. And the bottom line is there’s federal funding that goes to these universities… They have a legal obligation to protect all students under Title VI and that’s the expectation. We expect that from Congress out of these universities and I’m hoping they step up to the moment and they have to do so now.”
Asked if he would feel safe sending his children to Columbia University in the current environment, Gottheimer said: “After what I saw yesterday, I would be very concerned.”
He also said there should be Title VI investigations when it comes to situations similar to what is happening on campus.
Gottheimer was one of several lawmakers who walked across Columbia University on Monday to stand in solidarity with Jewish students.
Amanda Smith is a dedicated U.S. correspondent with a passion for uncovering the stories that shape the nation. With a background in political science, she provides in-depth analysis and insightful commentary on domestic affairs, ensuring readers are well-informed about the latest developments across the United States.
