Protests in support of Gaza escalated at Columbia University, with protesters taking over and barricading themselves inside Hamilton Hall.
School administrators warned people to avoid campus as protests continued.
“Early this morning, a group of protestors occupied Hamilton Hall on the Morningside campus. In light of the protest activity on campus, members of the University community who can avoid coming to the Morningside campus today (Tuesday, April 30) should do so; essential personnel should report to work according to university policy. Please check with your supervisor if you have any questions. Be aware that access to campus and other campus buildings may be restricted,” school administrators stated.
Fox News is reporting that @Columbia President Shafik has not addressed the pro-Hamas antisemitic violent mob that is occupying Hamilton Hall.
It is time for Shafik to resign. pic.twitter.com/jlAtSsFrAN
— House Republicans (@HouseGOP) April 30, 2024
Critics argued that university President Mamet Shafik had failed in her duties to maintain order and safety, especially as the occupation involved breaking windows and restricting access to buildings.
Several Republican politicians and commentators, including Reps. Anthony D’Esposito and Mike Johnson as well as Senator Tim Scott, called for Shafik’s resignation, saying the situation showed mob rule and that she had lost control and was out of her depth in dealing with the disruptions from what they characterized as pro-Hamas and antisemitic agitators.
“Antisemitic agitators have taken hammers to @Columbia and are now occupying a main building. These terror sympathizers will destroy @Columbia until leadership steps up. Shafik’s out of her depth — resign,” Rep. Anthony D’Esposito said.
“This is not a protest; this is terrorism. President Shafik must resign immediately,” House Speaker Mike Johnson said.
“This is what happens when you refuse to stand up to bullies and let mob rule take over. As I’ve said before, President Shafik needs to resign immediately!” Sen. Tim Scott said.
They asserted Shafik must resign immediately given the chaos and lack of response from her so far.
“Fox News is reporting that @Columbia President Shafik has not addressed the pro-Hamas antisemitic violent mob that is occupying Hamilton Hall. It is time for Shafik to resign,” House Republicans wrote on X.
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