Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) publicly rebuked Cornell University, her alma mater, on Wednesday over the school's response to gang rape allegations involving seven fraternity members in 2024. The case, which has drawn national attention after a lawsuit was filed this month, has prompted a wave of bipartisan criticism from lawmakers.
Speaking to a TMZ DC reporter at the Capitol, Slotkin said the handling of the case reflects a broader institutional failure. "Whether it's my university or anyone's university, clearly there's been some sort of delay in accountability, and that needs to end," she said. "When we make the decision that because young men have a promising career ahead of them, they shouldn't face accountability for violently assaulting a woman ... then we've lost our way."
The lawsuit, filed by a plaintiff identified as Jane Doe, alleges she was raped over several hours at the Chi Phi fraternity house. At the time of the incident, no criminal charges were filed against the accused individuals. The case has reignited debates about campus sexual assault and the effectiveness of Title IX protections.
Slotkin's remarks align with growing pressure on Cornell from other elected officials. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) has called for an independent investigation, and Cornell has agreed to cooperate. The local district attorney's office also announced it would reopen the criminal case. Hochul's demand for an outside probe underscores the mounting scrutiny on the university.
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) also criticized Cornell during a Sunday appearance in Ithaca, describing a "culture of rape" at the Ivy League institution. Her comments were echoed by the Democratic Women's Caucus, whose chair, Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), and vice chairs, Reps. Emilia Sykes (D-Ohio) and Hillary Scholten (D-Mich.), called the incident "disgusting and vile" in a Wednesday statement. They also condemned the Trump administration for rolling back Title IX protections.
Slotkin, who represents a state with several large universities, pointed to a broader pattern of institutional failure in higher education. "We know what it's like when institutions fail women," she said. Her comments come as new evidence, including Snapchat messages, has emerged, potentially bolstering the case against the fraternity members. A grand jury is now expected to review the allegations.
The lawsuit has also drawn attention to the role of university disciplinary processes. Critics argue that schools often prioritize protecting their reputations over ensuring justice for survivors. The case has become a flashpoint in the broader national conversation about campus safety and accountability.
The Hill has reached out to Cornell for comment on Slotkin's statement. The university has not yet responded publicly.
