Trump's Bold Proposals to Jewish Donors on University Accreditation

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump stated that U.S. universities must end alleged antisemitic propaganda or face loss of accreditation and federal support if he is elected. Speaking to Jewish donors, he also outlined policies on Israel, Middle Eastern refugees, and the Abraham Accords, while criticizing Vice President Kamala Harris.

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump announced that U.S. universities would have to cease what he described as 'antisemitic propaganda' or face losing their accreditation and federal support, if he is elected president. Trump made this declaration while speaking remotely to over 1,000 donors at the Republican Jewish Coalition in Las Vegas.

Protests erupted across college campuses earlier this year against Israel's Gaza offensive, with students urging institutions to sever ties with companies supporting Israel. Republicans claim these protests indicate antisemitism among Democrats, while protest groups argue their criticisms are being unfairly labeled as antisemitic.

The Association of American Universities, representing about 69 leading U.S. universities, has yet to comment. The federal government doesn't directly accredit universities but oversees private organizations that do. Trump also mentioned banning refugees from areas like Gaza and arresting 'pro-Hamas thugs,' referring to student protesters. His speech claimed that a potential Harris presidency would be detrimental to Israel, despite Harris' spokesperson affirming her strong support for Israel and condemnation of antisemitism.

Health authorities in Gaza report over 40,000 Palestinian deaths since the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack, while the counter-attack has displaced millions and prompted allegations of genocide. The Republican Jewish Coalition is investing heavily in Trump's campaign, aiming to bring out Jewish voters in battleground states. Trump's policy priorities for a second term include expanding the Abraham Accords, taking a tougher stance on Iran, and reforming or defunding the United Nations.

RJC members expressed their support for these policies at their annual conference, highlighted by financial backing from figures like Sheldon and Miriam Adelson. While efforts to normalize ties between Saudi Arabia and Israel have stalled, RJC Chairman Norm Coleman remains optimistic about future opportunities under both Biden and potentially Trump.

(With inputs from agencies.)