In light of disturbing reports that anti-Semitic acts have reached an all-time high across the United States in the past year—including violent protests at Princeton University—Senator Bob Singer (R-30) has taken a strong stand, calling for the suspension of taxpayer funding to the university until it addresses the growing issue of anti-Jewish bias on its campus. This is a moment where leadership is needed, and as Explore New Jersey sees it, this issue goes beyond politics; it’s a moral imperative for all New Jerseyans to take seriously.
Princeton University is among a number of higher education institutions that are currently under federal investigation for anti-Semitism, especially following a wave of pro-Palestinian protests that have, in many cases, crossed the line into hate speech and discriminatory actions against Jewish students.
As recent events have shown, when universities fail to protect their students from hate and harassment, the consequences extend beyond the campus walls, sending a chilling message to the broader community about the safety and well-being of minority groups. For Senator Singer, the university’s response—or lack thereof—to these protests and the rise in anti-Semitic sentiments on campus is unacceptable.
The Rising Tide of Anti-Semitic Incidents
It’s undeniable that the wave of pro-Palestinian protests that surged in 2023 has cast a dark shadow over many college campuses, Princeton University included. While free speech is a fundamental right, when protests escalate into acts of discrimination, violence, and intimidation directed at Jewish students, that right should not be shielded under the banner of political activism.
Anti-Semitic incidents across the U.S. have surged to unprecedented levels, with universities becoming hotbeds for this toxic rhetoric. Princeton, one of the country’s most prestigious universities, is now facing the harsh reality of federal investigations due to its failure to effectively respond to these incidents. The school’s administration’s seemingly weak reaction to anti-Semitic protests has fueled anger and frustration—not only among the Jewish community but across broader society.
Senator Singer, in his statement, expressed deep concern over the university’s inability to provide a safe environment for all students, particularly its Jewish population. He emphasized that the university’s leadership must do more than just issue statements; they must take concrete actions to ensure that anti-Semitic behaviors are eradicated and that those responsible are held accountable.
The Call for Accountability: Withholding Taxpayer Funding
Princeton University, which received over $5.9 million in taxpayer dollars across two fiscal years (FY 2024 and FY 2025), must be held accountable for its lack of decisive action. In FY 2024 alone, the university was allocated $2,611,461, with an additional $3,309,313 in FY 2025 through April 2025. These funds, which come directly from New Jersey taxpayers, should not be used to support an institution that allows hate speech to go unchecked.
Senator Singer’s demand for a halt to taxpayer funding is both bold and necessary. If Princeton is unwilling to take the necessary steps to combat anti-Semitism, then it should not be entitled to the financial support of the public. New Jersey residents should not be forced to subsidize an institution that fails to protect its students from discrimination, hatred, and intimidation.
This call to action is not just about cutting financial ties, but about sending a powerful message to every institution that public funds should not be used to support environments that foster hatred. This is a direct challenge to universities across the country to take a hard look at how they handle complaints of hate speech and discrimination—whether it be directed toward Jewish students, or any other minority group.
The Importance of Leadership and Immediate Action
Senator Singer’s statement doesn’t just stop at demanding an end to taxpayer funding; he also calls on Governor Phil Murphy to join in this effort by suspending all state funding to Princeton University until meaningful changes are made. This is a call for unity and action that transcends political divides. For Governor Murphy to stand with Senator Singer on this issue would demonstrate that New Jersey’s leadership is willing to prioritize the safety and well-being of all students, regardless of their background or beliefs.
This is not a partisan issue—it is a moral issue. The rise of hate on university campuses threatens the very principles upon which this nation was built. Higher education institutions should be places of intellectual growth, tolerance, and inclusivity. When they fail to uphold these values, it is incumbent upon elected officials, such as Senator Singer, to demand accountability and reform.
What’s Next for Princeton?
As Princeton University faces increasing scrutiny for its handling of anti-Semitic incidents on campus, the pressure is mounting for the administration to act decisively. Concrete steps must be taken, such as implementing robust anti-discrimination policies, providing resources for victims of bias, and ensuring that all students—Jewish or otherwise—feel safe in their academic environment.
The university must also address the role of faculty and student organizations in perpetuating or tolerating anti-Semitism. This includes ensuring that faculty are held to high standards when it comes to promoting inclusivity and confronting hate speech in the classroom. Students who engage in hate speech or violence must face consequences that reflect the severity of their actions.
Without these steps, Princeton risks continuing to serve as a breeding ground for hate. But if they can rise to the challenge and take proactive, meaningful action, the university has the potential to lead by example and set a new standard for how universities handle issues of discrimination and bias.
Standing for What’s Right
In the end, what Senator Singer is calling for is nothing short of accountability. This is about ensuring that all students, especially those who belong to marginalized communities like the Jewish community, feel protected and respected on campus. Universities must be held to the highest standards, and those that fail to uphold these values should not be subsidized with taxpayer dollars.
At Explore New Jersey, we believe that this is an issue that demands attention from all corners of society. The fight against anti-Semitism, and all forms of hatred, must be led with unwavering commitment, courage, and integrity. This is not just about Princeton University—this is about ensuring that New Jersey remains a place where tolerance, respect, and inclusivity are not just ideals but daily practices.
Senator Singer’s call to suspend funding may seem harsh to some, but it sends a clear message: New Jersey will not stand idly by in the face of hate. The time for action is now.