Internet weighs in as Donald Trump criticizes Columbia University's commencement cancellation amid trial

MANHATTAN, NEW YORK: Amid the ongoing hush money trial, Donald Trump took a moment to criticize Columbia University's canceled commencement.

Outside the Manhattan courtroom, Trump slammed the university's decision to cancel the universitywide graduation ceremony on May 15 after weeks of anti-Israel protest, according to the New York Post.

Donald Trump says Columbia University's graduation cancellation 'shouldn't happen'

Holding a stack of printed news articles about Columbia University's canceled commencement, Trump said, "That shouldn't happen," on Monday morning, May 6.

He also referenced reports suggesting that the protesters at the university were "backed by Biden donors."

"Are you listening, Israel? I hope you're listening," he added.

Columbia University plans for 'smaller-scale' celebrations

After weeks of violent anti-Israel protests that brought campus activities to a halt, Columbia University officials announced on Monday, May 6, that the universitywide commencement ceremony on May 15 is canceled.

Instead, the Ivy League school will be opting for "smaller-scale, school-based celebrations."

“We have decided to make the centerpiece of our commencement activities our class days and school-level ceremonies, where students are honored individually alongside their peers," the school announced.

Columbia University claims graduating students were consulted regarding graduation ceremony cancellation

The graduation ceremony is traditionally held on Columbia's iconic South Lawn, where hundreds of protesters, who refused to leave their massive tent encampment, were arrested and hauled away during the anti-Israel demonstrations.

The university stated that the decision to forgo the universitywide ceremony was made in consultation with the graduating students.

“Our graduating students, their families, and their loved ones are very focused on our upcoming commencement celebrations. We are as well," read the announcement.

"We are determined to give our students the celebration they deserve, and that they want. Our students emphasized that these smaller-scale, school-based celebrations are most meaningful to them and their families," the officials stated.

“As a result, we will focus our resources on those school ceremonies and on keeping them safe, respectful, and running smoothly," the announcement added.

Internet reacts to Donald Trump's criticism against Columbia University's canceled commencement

Reacting to Trump slamming Columbia University's decision to cancel universitywide commencement, one user on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, "He's tough and continues to stand his ground. I have so much respect for that! Go, Trump!"

One user wrote, "Please mute him!" while another user tweeted, "Trump is great isn’t he."

"Can Trump just shut up," a netizen commented and another user wrote, "Columbia has made a total mockery of education and free inquiry."

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