The author, the first Jewish president of a formerly Methodist university, expresses deep concern over the Trump administration's stance on antisemitism. They believe the administration's actions are not genuine attempts to combat antisemitism but rather serve as a cover for various political agendas.
The article cites the Secretary of Education's threat to withhold billions of dollars in funding from Harvard due to alleged antisemitic discrimination and the Justice Department's investigation of 60 universities. These actions are presented as examples of the administration's aggressive approach.
The author highlights several concerns about the administration's broader agenda. These include dismantling government functions, undermining the independence of cultural and educational institutions, criminalizing political speech, and using official power for petty vendettas. The author argues these agendas pose a greater threat to Jewish people than actual antisemitism.
These detentions, along with other actions, are described as reminiscent of historical events that have negatively impacted Jewish communities.
The author concludes that the administration's approach is not only wrong in itself but also presents a significant threat to the safety and well-being of Jewish people, exceeding the dangers posed by campus protests or other forms of antisemitism.