Exclusive: Cornell rape allegations fuel House Democratic women's Title IX push
A criminal investigation into allegations that a Cornell University student was gang raped by seven fraternity members in 2024 is fueling a new push by House Democratic women to strengthen federal protections against sexual violence on college campuses. Why it matters: The Democratic Women's Caucus is calling on congressional Republicans and the Trump administration to strengthen Title IX…
A former Cornell University student, known as Jane Doe, is suing the school and seven fraternity members after alleging she was gang-raped at a fraternity house in October 2024. Cornell conducted a Title IX investigation, leading to two students being expelled and lesser disciplinary action for the others. The Department of Justice (DOJ) has opened a criminal investigation into the allegations, but no charges have been filed.
The lack of criminal charges and the university's handling of the case have sparked controversy. Democrats are calling for stronger federal protections against sexual violence on college campuses, arguing that the Trump administration's changes to Title IX have eroded processes for sexual misconduct investigations. House Democratic women are urging Republican lawmakers and the Trump administration to condemn the incident, stand with Jane Doe, and work together to protect survivors and ensure they can seek justice.
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