CA Republican Leaders Call for Cutting Funding for Universities, Students Over Gaza Protests

Republican leaders in the state Legislature said Thursday that funding should be cut for any state university administration that fails to ensure campus safety, and for any students found guilty of illegal acts.

The proposal by Senate Minority Leader Brian Jones of San Diego and Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher of Yuba City came in response to pro-Palestine protests at UC San Diego, UC Irvine, UCLA and other institutions.

“Violence and illegal activity of any kind is not protected by the First Amendment,” said Jones at a press conference in Sacramento. “The administrations must swiftly regain control of the situation and guarantee a secure learning environment for our students.”

“Taxpayers should not be bankrolling administrations that falter in upholding law and order on campus,” he said.

The two lawmakers also said state-funded grants should be cut for students found guilty and suspended for their involvement in any illegal acts.

“All Californians have a right to express their views but that right ends when you carry out acts of violence, destruction of property, and trample upon the right of others, the rights of fellow students to learn,” said Gallagher.