The New York state Republican congressional delegation has unanimously called for the resignation of Columbia University President Lee Bollinger over his handling of pro-Palestinian protests on campus.
In a letter signed by all 10 GOP lawmakers from New York, the lawmakers accused Bollinger of allowing an “unsanctioned mob” to target Jewish students and of failing to protect their safety.
“The situation unfolding on campus right now is a direct product of your policies and misguided decisions,” the letter states. “Based on these recent events and your testimony in front of Congress, we have no confidence in your leadership of this once esteemed institution.”
Bollinger has come under fire from both sides of the protests over Israel’s war in Gaza. Protesters and some faculty members have criticized him for not doing enough to condemn Israel’s actions, while the GOP lawmakers have accused him of not doing enough to protect pro-Israel Jewish students.
“This unsanctioned mob has been allowed to continue to target Jewish students,” the lawmakers wrote. “The people of this institution should no longer want someone who is promoting antisemitic acts.”
Bollinger has defended his handling of the protests, saying that he has taken steps to ensure the safety of all students and that he supports the right to free speech.
However, the GOP lawmakers said that Bollinger’s actions have not been enough and that he should resign.
