Will Biden actually do this?
Rep. Ro Khanna, representing California’s 17th congressional district, emphasized the importance of President Biden’s engagement with college campuses amidst the ongoing pro-Palestinian protests sweeping the nation. In an interview with Margaret Brennan on “Face the Nation,” Khanna addressed concerns about the protests potentially overshadowing their underlying issues.
Reflecting on his recent visits to various college campuses amid the protests, Khanna highlighted the diverse range of topics being discussed, including abortion rights, the soaring cost of living, and the pressing need for action on student loans and housing affordability. Despite the prominence of the Gaza conflict in these discussions, Khanna noted the constructive dialogue between Jewish and Arab Americans on many campuses.
When pressed by Brennan on why President Biden had not actively participated in these campus conversations, Khanna stressed the necessity for Biden’s presence and engagement in such settings. He expressed his belief that the president should and inevitably would involve himself in campus dialogues.
Khanna underscored the impact of the college protests in shaping the discourse on the Israel-Hamas conflict, describing it as an “awakening” in Washington. He highlighted a growing awareness among policymakers, including the president, of the discontent among young people regarding the conflict’s toll and the urgency for its resolution. Khanna noted a noticeable shift in the president’s rhetoric over recent months, indicating a heightened sensitivity to the issue.
President Biden himself addressed the ongoing protests during a White House briefing, condemning violent demonstrations while affirming the right to peaceful protest. He unequivocally denounced antisemitism and Islamophobia, emphasizing the imperative of combating hate speech and violence in all forms.
In conclusion, Khanna’s remarks underscore the significance of President Biden’s engagement with college campuses amidst the ongoing protests, highlighting the pivotal role of constructive dialogue in addressing complex issues such as the Israel-Hamas conflict.
