Ernst Works to Revoke Federal Funding from Terrorist-Loving College Students

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) joined Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) in introducing the No Higher education Assistance for Mobs of Antisemitic and terrorist Sympathizing Students (No HAMAS) Act in direct response to the unlawful, antisemitic, pro-Hamas encampments and riots that have taken place across the nation.

The No HAMAS Act would revoke federal student financial assistance for students who are convicted of trespassing, rioting, or damaging property while protesting at a higher education institution. Students convicted would lose their eligibility for any federal grant, loan, or work study assistance.

“Violence against Jewish students is not a First Amendment right, and every American should oppose these pro-Hamas protests,” said Senator Ernst. “As encampments pop up coast to coast – this is a win for the Iran-backed terrorists who killed babies, raped women, and are holding our citizens hostage. I’m proud to join my colleagues in giving spoiled, out-of-touch college students a dose of reality. Violence must always have consequences.”

“Mobs of pro-Hamas students have flagrantly violated the law, destroyed campus property, and resorted to violence against fellow students and law enforcement. Hardworking taxpayers shouldn’t have to keep paying for the college tuition of convicted lawbreakers,” said Senator Tillis. “The No Hamas Act is commonsense legislation that will cut off federal aid for grown adults who are breaking our laws, spewing antisemitism, and openly embracing terrorists.”

Background:

Ernst is dedicated to protecting Jewish students and standing with our ally, Israel. Earlier this week, she spoke on the Senate floor, calling for the Senate to pass a resolution she led with Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) to condemn antisemitism on college campuses and the administrators who enabled attacks on Jewish students. Following her remarks, Senate Democrats doubled down on their support for pro-Hamas protests and blocked this effort. 

While she was in Israel this week, Ernst received reports that the United States withheld an ammunition shipment to Israel, which would help it defend itself from Hamas. She and Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) immediately demanded answers from President Biden on what ammunition his administration withheld from Israel, whether it was ammunition approved by Congress, and why Congress was not notified.