The internal conflict within the Democratic Party over the Israel-Gaza situation has inadvertently placed Republicans in a difficult position, particularly with the recent passage of H.R. 6090, which aims to combat antisemitism on college campuses. The efforts by House Speaker Mike Johnson to address rising antisemitism have sparked resistance and protests, unfairly tarnishing the Republican party’s image.
Internal Strife Over H.R. 6090
Johnson’s belief that tackling antisemitism would unify the GOP has not gone as planned. Sources from both chambers of Congress expressed their frustration to the Daily Caller about Johnson’s handling of H.R. 6090, also known as the Antisemitism Awareness Act. They feel that it has made them targets for unjust criticism.
My official statement on the House’s passage of H.R. 6090: pic.twitter.com/Ub9CiKatMe
— Rep Andy Biggs (@RepAndyBiggsAZ) May 1, 2024
GOP’s Dilemma and Leadership Criticism
Several GOP aides explained to the Caller that they are now in a lose-lose situation—either compromise on free speech or be unfairly labeled as “antisemite.” A senior GOP Senate aide criticized Johnson’s leadership, stating, “This botched antisemitism resolution is just the cherry on top of the crap sundae Mike Johnson has served Congressional Republicans for six months. Whether through incompetence or malice, he is a worthy successor to Nancy Pelosi.”
Worst part is that 4 of us went to the Speaker’s Office hours before the vote asking him to fix this.
He told us he would, but then brought it to the Floor as is. https://t.co/LGHMbMNLAC
— Rep. Eli Crane (@RepEliCrane) May 2, 2024
Concerns Over Rushed Legislation
Another senior GOP aide from the House echoed similar sentiments, criticizing H.R. 6090 as merely a “messaging bill.” He warned about the consequences of pushing such bills without thorough scrutiny, stating, “This is a problem when messaging bills are just brought up without adequate consideration and aren’t scrutinized fully. You end up giving Democrats cover on an issue while splitting the Republican conference when you shouldn’t.”
Addressing Radicalization in Colleges
While there’s no denying that addressing radicalization in U.S. colleges and universities is crucial, it’s evident that H.R. 6090 falls short of achieving this goal.