Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman is demanding the resignation of Hofstra University President Dr. Susan Poser, accusing her of drawing a “moral equivalence” between Hamas’ actions and the political agenda of the Palestinian people in the aftermath of the October 7 attacks. Blakeman, a Republican and former Business Law instructor at Hofstra, expressed his dismay according to a letter obtained by Fox News Digital on Sunday.
In the letter addressed to the Hofstra University Board of Trustees, Blakeman criticized Poser’s statement on the Israel-Hamas conflict, deeming it “misguided and antithetical to good moral values.” He asserted that her remarks, characterized as “callous and unconscionable,” raised concerns about her ability to lead the university, the largest private institution in Nassau County.
Blakeman’s objection stems from Poser’s October 18 message to the Hofstra community, responding to the conflict between Israel and Hamas. In her statement, Poser acknowledged the loss of life on both sides and highlighted the complex history and conflicting views contributing to the ongoing crisis. She emphasized the tragic loss of innocent lives among Israelis, Palestinians, and others.
Blakeman, however, asserted that Poser should have unequivocally condemned Hamas without any equivocation, particularly in the face of the terrorist organization’s attacks. He criticized what he perceived as “fence-sitting and handwringing” in her response to the conflict.
Poser’s message also announced a “Vigil for Peace” at the university and reaffirmed Hofstra’s commitment to preventing discrimination or harassment based on religion or national origin. She assured that the university collaborates with law enforcement to monitor risks and ensure campus safety.
The call for Poser’s resignation adds to the ongoing debate over how institutions navigate and respond to discussions around the Israel-Hamas conflict, highlighting the challenges of maintaining a balanced perspective while addressing the diverse views within academic communities.
