House Speaker Mike Johnson has demanded the resignation of Columbia University President Lee Bollinger, following a heated news conference on Wednesday where Johnson and other Republican lawmakers faced disruptions and booing from the crowd. The visit was organized to address concerns about antisemitism and violence on campus, but was met with a hostile reception from many students and faculty members.
During the conference, Johnson and his colleagues were repeatedly interrupted by chants of “Mike, you suck” and accusations of allowing hatred and antisemitism to flourish on college campuses. In response, Johnson called for Bollinger’s resignation, stating that the university must take immediate action to restore order. He also announced his intention to call President Joe Biden and demand federal intervention, including the potential deployment of the National Guard.
Johnson’s visit coincided with growing conservative criticism and the threat of ouster from some GOP members led by Marjorie Taylor Greene. The speaker has faced pressure for his support of a foreign aid package that included assistance to Ukraine, a move opposed by many hardline conservatives. However, his visit to Columbia University drew some support from his detractors within the party, with Republicans rallying around him after his remarks were interrupted by protesters.
Despite the opposition he has faced, Johnson has defended his leadership and vowed not to resign. He remains under pressure from within his own party, but has attempted to quell dissent by aligning himself with causes and positions that resonate with the GOP base. Amidst the controversy, Johnson’s actions and the ongoing debate over his leadership will undoubtedly continue to shape the political landscape within the Republican Party.
