Former President Donald Trump has issued a powerful executive order directing federal agencies to take immediate action against rising antisemitism in the United States. The order, signed Wednesday, requires agencies to identify legal mechanisms—including civil, criminal, and immigration laws—to combat anti-Jewish hate speech, intimidation, and pro-terrorist rhetoric, particularly on college campuses.
A key focus of the order is the deportation of foreign nationals, including student visa holders, who have violated laws while engaging in anti-Israel protests. This move follows months of nationwide demonstrations, some of which included open support for Hamas, the terrorist organization responsible for the Oct. 7, 2023, massacre of over 1,200 Israelis.
Cracking Down on Campus Hate
Trump’s executive action comes as Republican-led House committees continue to scrutinize universities for failing to combat antisemitism. One of the most scrutinized institutions is Columbia University, which received $2.7 billion in federal funding in 2023 and has been at the center of multiple incidents involving harassment and threats against Jewish students.
The order mandates the Justice Department to investigate pro-Hamas graffiti, threats, and intimidation tactics used against Jewish students and faculty. Additionally, it urges stricter oversight of how federal funds are allocated to colleges and universities that fail to enforce anti-discrimination policies.
Defunding and Deportation Measures
One of the most significant aspects of Trump’s order is the potential defunding of institutions that tolerate antisemitic rhetoric under the guise of free speech. This move echoes a previous executive order from Trump’s first term, which aimed to withhold federal funds from cities that failed to control violent riots.
Additionally, legal precedent supports the deportation of foreign nationals engaged in extremist activities. The Supreme Court ruled in Kleindienst v. Mandel (1972) that the U.S. government can deny visas to individuals who support radical ideologies, setting a legal basis for Trump’s push to expel pro-Hamas activists who are in the U.S. on student or work visas.
Federal Agencies Under Pressure
The Biden administration has faced criticism for failing to release records on the number of visa-holders involved in anti-Israel protests, prompting further calls for transparency. The Trump order gives agencies 60 days to report back with their recommendations, setting the stage for swift policy changes.
This latest executive action underscores Trump’s commitment to taking a hardline stance on antisemitism and ensuring that taxpayer funds are not used to support institutions that tolerate hate. With the 2024 election cycle heating up, his decisive action on this issue is likely to resonate strongly with voters concerned about campus radicalization and national security.