Duval Times

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Rick Scott has called for immediate action against antisemitic protests on college campuses, urging Attorney General Merrick Garland to investigate and prosecute the organizations behind these unlawful and violent demonstrations. In a letter to AG Garland, Senator Scott expressed his concerns over the rising threats faced by Jewish students amidst pro-Hamas protests.

Senator Scott emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, "These well-organized and well-funded mass gatherings of ignorant, hateful bigots have far exceeded the bounds of legitimate expressions of constitutionally protected speech." He highlighted the violent and hateful nature of these protests, calling for decisive measures to be taken against those inciting violence against Jewish students.

Referring to the organizations behind these protests, Senator Scott questioned AG Garland on the actions being taken, stating, "What action you are taking to weed out the sources organizing, funding and fomenting this widespread criminality?" He specifically mentioned far-left nonprofit organizations like the U.S. Campaign for Palestinian Rights, Students for Justice in Palestine, Jewish Voice for Peace, and Within Our Lifetime, which have been identified as central to the violent demonstrations on college campuses.

Senator Scott criticized the lack of action taken against these groups, highlighting the need for investigations and prosecutions. He pointed out the disparity in the treatment of different groups, stating, "As attorney general, you and your agency have not hesitated to target concerned parents of school children speaking out at school board meetings, pro-life advocates, or 'radical traditionalist' Catholics devoutly practicing their faith in church."

In his letter to AG Garland, Senator Scott concluded by expressing hope for swift and appropriate action against the organizations fueling antisemitic protests on college campuses. The Senator has been actively advocating for legislation to combat antisemitism, including the Stop Antisemitism on College Campuses Act and the Antisemitism Awareness Act.

The full letter from Senator Rick Scott to Attorney General Garland can be accessed for further details on the urgent call for action against antisemitic protests on college campuses.