33 House Dems Break With Jeffries As Party Fractures Over Israel

House Passes Bill Restricting Federal Funding for Colleges That Boycott Israel

The U.S. House passed H.R. 4795, the Protect Economic and Academic Freedom Act of 2026, on September 3 by a vote of 237–169. The measure was sponsored by Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.) and co-sponsored by Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.).

Thirty-three Democrats joined Republicans in supporting the legislation, while 167 Democrats and two Republicans voted against it. House Republican records show 203 Republicans voted yes and two voted no.

The bill would amend the Higher Education Act to make institutions that participate in certain nonexpressive commercial boycotts of Israel ineligible for specified federal funding. It also includes provisions concerning students’ participation in certain academic programs in Israel.

The legislation drew opposition from some Democrats and civil-liberties advocates, who argued that the measure could affect political expression and academic freedom. Supporters said it is intended to address discrimination and antisemitism associated with certain boycott activities.

The bill now moves to the U.S. Senate for consideration.