House speaker Mike Johnson threatens pro-Palestinian campus protesters

House of Representatives speaker Mike Johnson takes a strong stance against Pro-Palestine protests on college campuses, initiating a series of measures intended to address what he considers a serious issue of antisemitism within academic environments.

Johnson's actions include the potential of hauling professors and students before Congress to answer for their roles in supporting what he categorizes as harmful ideologies.

In an exclusive interview with the Post, Johnson did not mince words: "I think we need accountability from top to bottom," he said.

The Speaker expressed outrage over the involvement of academic figures in what he perceives as antisemitic activities. "The idea that some of these professors would be involved in this is outrageous, and I think they need to be called to account and of course the students as well."

Johnson's scrutiny isn't just aimed at students and faculty; university leaders are also under pressure. Following discussions that led to resignations from university presidents at Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania, Johnson met with Columbia University President Minouche Shafik. He recounted telling her, "You don’t negotiate with aspiring terrorists," indicating his dissatisfaction with her attempts to handle campus protests. He has since called for her resignation.

The Speaker's approach extends beyond administrative discussions. He announced a full House effort aimed at eliminating the influence of what he referred to as "Hamas agitators" on campuses. This includes a new legislative push which saw the passage of a bipartisan bill to expand the definition of antisemitism.

Despite the proactive steps taken by the House, the bill's future in the Senate remains uncertain. Meanwhile, Johnson remains resolute in his approach to combating campus antisemitism, comparing his needed actions to historical measures taken by past presidents: "When schools are violating civil rights laws, and violating federal law, yes, there is an appropriate federal response. We need more Eisenhower and less Biden," he argued.

Source: Newsroom