In other news

State

Gov. Glenn Youngkin issued an executive order Oct. 31 calling for antisemitism and other anti-religious bigotry to be combatted due to the increased hatred following the Hamas and Israel attacks.

“Virginia is the birthplace of the freedom of religion in America, and protecting the community centers and houses of worship of the Jewish people is paramount,” Youngkin said in the statement. “But this commitment extends to all religions, including those of the Muslim faith, who are increasingly concerned about backlash.”

Youngkin’s executive order includes further resources and training to combat ethnic-based violence and quickly identify threats and violence against religious communities and places of worship. The order also established a situation room, which focuses on protecting houses of worship and religious affiliated institutions. Law enforcement is directed to enhance safety measures to protect those who are facing threats based on their religion. The executive order also includes protecting students in their place of education. 

“Hatred, intolerance, and antisemitism have no place in Virginia,” Youngkin said in the statement. 

National

A 21-year-old Cornell University student was charged and arrested Oct. 31 after being accused of posting violent and threatening statements against the Jewish community, according to the New York Daily News. 

Patrick Dai from Pittsford, New York, appeared in federal court Nov. 1 and was held without bail, according to AP News. Cornell University also suspended Dai.

The alleged threats were posted on a website not affiliated with Cornell University, but one related to fraternities and sororities, according to AP News.  

If charged, Dai will receive a maximum sentence of up to five years in prison, supervised release of up to three years and a fine of up to $250,000, according to the United States Attorney’s Office.

Dai will return to court Nov. 15. 

International

Two top Biden Administration officials warned lawmakers in a congressional hearing Oct. 31 that “Putin will be successful” if lawmakers send aid to Israel but stop funding for Ukraine, according to Politico. This follows President Joe Biden’s request for $105 billion in emergency aid funds, with $14.3 billion going to Israel and $61.4 billion going to Ukraine, according to Politico and The Hill. 

Newly elected Speaker Mike Johnson plans to help Israel first before assisting Ukraine, according to AP News. Johnson told Republicans that the large funding package Biden proposed will not pass in the House and Ukraine funding will be determined after funding for Israel passes, according to The Hill. 

“Israel doesn’t need a cease-fire,” Johnson said in a press release on Capitol Hill. “It needs its allies to cease with the politics and deliver its support now, and that’s what we’re doing.” 

In the press release, Johnson said no time should be wasted in giving Israel the aid that it needs. 

Denny is a news reporter for the Liberty Champion