College protests turn violent

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – Anti-war protests on college campuses continue to escalate, with some clashes turning violent.

In Congress, the House is planning to vote on a bill Republicans say will curb antisemitism and get the protests under control.

The bill adds a definition of antisemitism to federal anti-discrimination law.

While clashes play out on campus, they’re also happening in Congress.

As protestors clashed over the war in Gaza in Congress, some lawmakers say it’s out of control.

“This has got to stop,” said Rep. Ralph Norman (R-S.C.)

Republicans want to crack down on what they say is blatant antisemitism.

Texas Senator John Cornyn says this conduct goes beyond free speech.

“The line between protesting and rioting has been crossed time and time again,” Cornyn said.

Some Democrats praised the pro-Palestine protestors.

“We must stand with our young people,” said Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-N.Y.)

Michigan Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib said they should be protected.

“It needs to be very clear: your students constitutional rights don’t end when they enter your college campus grounds,” Tlaib said.

The White House defended the right to peacefully protest.

“Forcibly taking over a building is not peaceful. It’s just not. Students have the right to feel safe,” said White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.

As divisions play out in the U.S., Secretary of State Antony Blinken is in Israel meeting with leaders.

He urged Hamas to accept a ceasefire deal and release hostages.

“There is a proposal on the table. As we’ve said, no delays, no excuses, the time is now,” Blinken said.

Blinken also pushed Israel to get more humanitarian aid to Gaza.

While Democrats are opposed to this bill, they are backing an alternative bill that creates a national antisemitism task force.

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