Columbia funding cut wrong, despite antisemitism concerns

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Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer sharply criticized the Trump administration’s decision to withhold $400 million in funding from Columbia University, characterizing the move as a misguided response to concerns about antisemitism on campus.

During an appearance on MSNBC’s “All In,” Schumer acknowledged that Columbia University’s initial response to antisemitic incidents was inadequate, particularly noting conversations he had with Jewish students who experienced harassment and physical altercations on campus.

When host Chris Hayes questioned whether the funding cut represented a genuine effort to address antisemitism, Schumer responded, “No, absolutely not. Look, let’s start, Columbia didn’t do enough, especially in the early days, to go after antisemitism. I spoke — I’ve spoken to Jewish students there who were vilified and even hit and hurt. And they didn’t do enough.”

Chuck Schumer labeled ‘traitor’ after damning report reveals he quietly advised Columbia leaders to ignore criticism of campus antisemitism https://t.co/5pkpgbP0Uf pic.twitter.com/OO5YD1tBdw

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— New York Post (@nypost) November 1, 2024

However, Schumer expressed strong opposition to the broad-stroke approach of withdrawing substantial funding, suggesting that the decision could have far-reaching negative consequences. He emphasized that the $400 million likely supports various crucial initiatives, including medical research at Columbia Presbyterian and educational programs that benefit the vast majority of students uninvolved in protests.

The Democratic leader further elaborated on his position, stating, “this is outrageous. It’s just aimed at the universities. If you have some instance where someone didn’t do something about antisemitism and should have, go after that person or that group, but this is aimed at hurting universities, and I think it’s spreading and I think it’s very, very wrong.”

Schumer argued that rather than implementing sweeping financial penalties against educational institutions, a more targeted approach focusing on specific individuals or groups responsible for antisemitic behavior would be more appropriate and effective.

Guys, Chuck Schumer is having a tough week. Keep in mind, this man went from law school to a lifetime in politics. He’s never had a real job, and never signed both signs of a paycheck.pic.twitter.com/QvVjzHA99K

— Markwayne Mullin (@SenMullin) March 18, 2025