TRENTON, N.J. — Citing a surge in anti-Semitic incidents nationwide and protests at Princeton University, New Jersey State Senator Robert Singer (R-30) is calling for an immediate halt to taxpayer funding to the Ivy League institution unless it takes decisive action against anti-Jewish bias on campus.
Singer issued a public statement Thursday urging Governor Phil Murphy to suspend all state financial support for Princeton following what he described as the university’s “weak response” to recent anti-Semitic demonstrations linked to pro-Palestinian protests. Princeton is one of several universities currently under federal investigation for potential civil rights violations related to antisemitism.
Key Points
- NJ Senator Robert Singer called for a halt to Princeton University’s taxpayer funding over campus anti-Semitism concerns.
- Singer criticized the university’s response to recent anti-Semitic protests and urged Governor Murphy to act.
- Princeton has received more than $5.9 million in state funds across FY 2024 and FY 2025.
Funding freeze tied to university response
“Princeton University has a responsibility to ensure a safe, inclusive, and respectful atmosphere for all students,” Singer stated. “The recent anti-Semitic protests on campus, and the University leadership’s weak response, have been deeply troubling and demand immediate action.”
State records show Princeton received $2.6 million in taxpayer funds during fiscal year 2024 and $3.3 million thus far in fiscal year 2025. Singer said those funds should be suspended unless the university demonstrates “concrete steps to address and eliminate anti-Jewish bias.”
The call for action follows growing scrutiny of U.S. colleges and universities over their handling of on-campus demonstrations amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Singer’s demands highlight increasing political pressure on higher education institutions to address allegations of hate speech and discrimination.
Federal scrutiny and public pressure mount
Princeton is among dozens of universities being reviewed by federal authorities after waves of pro-Palestinian demonstrations last year reportedly included anti-Semitic rhetoric or actions. The investigations are examining whether those incidents violated the civil rights of Jewish students under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act.
Singer emphasized the nonpartisan nature of his appeal, calling the issue a “moral imperative” and warning that continued inaction “breeds hostility, fear, and division.”
He concluded by demanding immediate accountability from university officials and urging broader legislative and executive intervention if the issue is not swiftly resolved.
