Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) delivered a speech at the University of Florida (UF) on Wednesday, expressing his administration’s zero tolerance for disruptive pro-Hamas, anti-Israel protesters on campus. Despite ongoing chants in the background, DeSantis remained unfazed and continued with his address.
During the press conference, DeSantis criticized the protestors for their lack of outrage over the violent actions of Hamas against Israeli civilians. He emphasized that their attempts to disrupt the university were promptly shut down.
The arrest of some protesters led UF President Ben Sasse to issue a statement, asserting that the university is not a daycare and that consequences would be faced for breaking the rules. DeSantis reiterated the importance of maintaining order at state universities in Florida, contrasting the situation with other campuses where protesters are causing chaos.
He condemned the actions of protesters at elite universities across the country, highlighting instances of vandalism, antisemitism, and violence in the name of Hamas. DeSantis questioned the protesters’ knowledge of the history of the conflict and emphasized the importance of understanding the context before taking a stance.
Overall, DeSantis emphasized the need for respect, order, and knowledge in addressing complex issues like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
