On Thursday, over 30 Democrats joined Republicans in the House of Representatives to support a bill that would strip federal aid from colleges and universities engaged in boycotts against Israel. Introduced by Republican Virginia Foxx from North Carolina, this legislation aims to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965. It specifically targets institutions participating in ‘a nonexpressive commercial boycott of Israel’ by withholding federal funding.
The measure, known as the Protect Economic and Academic Freedom Act of 2026, passed with a 237-169 vote. It will now proceed to the Senate. In a social media statement, Foxx emphasized the importance of the legislation by asserting that it removes taxpayer support for what she described as antisemitic actions involving BDS and academic boycotts of Israel.
Details of the Legislation
This legislative proposal prohibits federally-funded colleges and universities from engaging in specific commercial boycotts of Israel. Additionally, it requires such institutions to provide proof that their students and faculty can participate in academic programs in Israel on terms equivalent to those in other countries.
Supporters argue the bill will protect against discrimination towards Israel and bolster academic exchange programs. However, opponents contend it might limit political activism and infringe upon free expression rights on campuses.
Shifting Attitudes in the U.S.
The vote takes place amid significant shifts in American views on Israel, particularly within the Democratic Party. A February Gallup poll highlighted that 65% of Democrats showed more sympathy towards Palestinians, with only 17% favoring Israelis. Nationwide, opinions are evenly split, with 41% supporting Palestinians and 36% supporting Israelis. Republican support for Israel remains strong, though Pew research suggests a rise in unfavorable views among younger Republicans.
Democratic Support and Opposition
Among the Democrats, 33 backed the bill alongside 203 Republicans, while 167, including Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, opposed it. The vote underscores a growing divide in the Democratic Party. While some lawmakers endorse legislation against antisemitism or to protect Jewish students, Democratic constituents have shifted away from Israel, especially following the conflict in Gaza.
Critics of the bill argue it might blur lines between combating antisemitism and allowing criticism of the Israeli government, an issue with free speech implications. Representative Jerry Nadler, despite disagreeing with the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, voted against the bill, citing his commitment to protecting all speech.
Implications for Democrats
The vote reflects tension in the Democratic Party as representatives support measures while voters lean towards more critical views of Israel. Jeffries faced criticism for appointing pro-Israel Democrat Jared Moskowitz to a key subcommittee, which some saw as misaligned with the party’s evolving electorate views.
The recent vote highlights a major shift within the Democratic caucus. While some members, particularly from competitive districts, view campus antisemitism as a civil-rights issue, the majority are wary of conflating antisemitism with policy criticism of Israel.