House Republicans Demand Reevaluation of Columbia's Accreditation Amid Anti-Israel Protests

House Republicans are calling for the Middle States Commission on Higher Education to reevaluate Columbia University's accreditation standards following a series of anti-Israel demonstrations on campus.

House Republicans have escalated their scrutiny of colleges and universities that have witnessed anti-Israel protests, with Columbia University now in their crosshairs. Led by Representative Rich McCormick (R-Ga.), a group of nine Republican lawmakers has penned a letter to the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, alleging that Columbia has violated established standards on ethics and integrity, as well as the delivery and support of the student learning experience.

The letter cites several incidents of anti-Semitism that have occurred on Columbia's campus in the wake of Hamas' terror attack in Israel in October 2023. Jewish students have reportedly faced harassment and physical violence, while certain professors have expressed support for Palestine, including one who described the actions of "Palestinian resistance fighters" as "astounding."

The Republicans also criticize Columbia's president for initially moving classes online when the protests began. They argue that these actions demonstrate the university's failure to uphold the accreditation standards outlined by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

In particular, the lawmakers cite Standard II: Ethics and Integrity, Standard III: Design and Delivery of the Student Learning Experience, and Standard IV: Support of the Student Experience. They contend that Columbia University has fallen short in adhering to these standards and request that the commission reassess the university's accreditation status.

The letter is part of a broader effort by House Republicans to crack down on anti-Israel sentiment on college campuses. Several university presidents have been summoned to Capitol Hill to testify about how they are handling antisemitism at their schools.

The Republican lawmakers maintain that American tax dollars should not be sent to institutions that fail to uphold quality standards. They argue that Columbia University's accreditation should be reexamined based on its alleged noncompliance with the established standards.

Columbia University has not yet issued an official response to the letter. Fox News Digital has reached out to the university for comment.

The Middle States Commission on Higher Education is an accrediting body that ensures the quality and integrity of higher education institutions. It has not yet announced any plans to review Columbia University's accreditation status.