Thirty-three House Democrats joined Republicans on Thursday to pass legislation restricting federal funding for colleges that participate in boycotts targeting Israel, fracturing the party over the divisive issue.
The House approved H.R. 4795, the Protect Economic and Academic Freedom Act of 2026, by a 237-169 vote. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries opposed the measure, placing him at odds with dozens of Democrats who supported the bill.
What the Legislation Does
The bill amends federal higher-education law to penalize colleges participating in certain boycotts of Israel. Institutions engaging in what the measure defines as a “nonexpressive commercial boycott” of Israel would lose eligibility for specified federal education funding.
The legislation also requires federally supported universities to certify that students face no “unreasonable obstruction” from participating in academic programs located in Israel.
Arguments in Support
Republicans and supportive Democrats argued the bill addresses hostile campus environments. Representative Josh Gottheimer defended the measure by noting that the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement seeks Israel’s destruction and has no place on American campuses.
Representative Virginia Foxx cited threats and assaults against Jewish students during campus protests. “Now is not the time for talk,” Foxx said. “It is the time for action.”
Progressive Opposition
Democratic opponents argued the legislation violates First Amendment protections for political speech. New York Democrat Jerry Nadler, who said he opposes the BDS movement, stated that “The First Amendment right to free speech does not apply only to agreeable speech.”
Michigan Democrat Rashida Tlaib delivered a sharper critique, calling the bill “an attack on free speech and academic freedom.” She accused lawmakers of suppressing pro-Palestinian activism.
Broader Party Divide
The vote reflects deepening Democratic disagreement over Israel policy. In July, 103 Democrats voted to eliminate $3.3 billion in annual U.S. security assistance to Israel, though the House rejected that proposal 314-104.
A June Quinnipiac survey found 66% of Democrats believed the United States was too supportive of Israel, a shift that intensified after the Gaza conflict began in October 2023.
Next Steps
The bill now moves to the Senate, where its passage will test whether the bipartisan coalition that formed in the House can maintain support. For Jeffries, the vote highlighted challenges in keeping Democrats unified on Israel ahead of the midterm elections.