Staff Reports
Republican members of the House Oversight Committee are urging the city government to provide police support to remove pro-Palestinian demonstrators at George Washington University. Led by Chairman James Comer, the Republican members visited the encampment where tensions have risen since its initial appearance on April 25. During their visit, the lawmakers were surrounded by a large group of protesters and faced disruptive chants at a subsequent press conference.
House Oversight Committee promises end to George Washington University protests after emergency hearing – Washington Examiner https://t.co/nmMJWZ7upr
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The Republicans criticized Mayor Bowser for not taking action to clear the encampment, stating that it constitutes trespassing. They called on the mayor to support law enforcement efforts at the university and expressed disappointment in her handling of the situation. The university administration had requested assistance from the city government and the Metropolitan Police Department, but has not received the necessary support.
Chairman Comer emphasized that Congress has authority over the capital district and passed legislation to rescind Washington, D.C.’s lenient crime policies. The committee plans to hold an emergency hearing to investigate the city government’s response to the university’s requests. They also intend to explore whether outside groups are funding the protest.
Representative Boebert highlighted what she saw as hypocrisy among some protesters who support the Palestinians while advocating for LGBT rights. She condemned the signs displayed by the demonstrators and stressed that they are supporting terrorists who would harm them.
Students at George Washington University have expressed frustration with the encampment, noting that it disrupts classes and impedes traffic flow. They have voiced support for a federal response to the protests, as they feel that local law enforcement has not done enough to address the situation.
In light of these developments, the Republican members of the House Oversight Committee are taking steps to hold the city government accountable for its handling of the pro-Palestinian encampment at George Washington University.
