The Trump administration has initiated new investigations into allegations of antisemitism at five prominent U.S. universities, including Columbia and the University of California, Berkeley. This move aligns with President Trump’s commitment to combat campus antisemitism more aggressively than the previous administration. The Department of Education’s actions coincide with the establishment of a new Justice Department task force aimed at addressing antisemitism within college campuses.

In response to recent events, such as Hamas’ attack on Israel and subsequent pro-Palestinian protests, the Education Department criticized universities for tolerating antisemitism and the Biden administration for what it deemed as ineffective resolutions. The investigations into Columbia, Berkeley, University of Minnesota, Northwestern University, and Portland State University were initiated independently by the Department of Education.

The order signed by President Trump emphasizes the need to combat anti-Jewish bias on campuses, going as far as suggesting the deportation of foreign students involved in pro-Palestinian demonstrations. The department’s statement emphasized a zero-tolerance policy towards indifference to the safety of Jewish students in American educational institutions.

House Republicans have endorsed these investigations, with Rep. Tim Walberg expressing approval for the administration’s actions to safeguard Jewish students. While the order has drawn criticism from civil rights groups for potentially infringing on First Amendment rights, the administration remains committed to eradicating antisemitism in schools. The newly formed task force, comprising the Justice and Education departments along with Health and Human Services, marks a significant step towards fulfilling President Trump’s renewed pledge to combat antisemitism in educational settings.