Trump Administration Freezes $2.2 Billion in Federal Funding to Harvard After University Rejects Demands
The Trump administration has announced the immediate freeze of more than $2.2 billion in federal grants and contracts to Harvard University, following the institution’s rejection of a list of sweeping demands from the White House.
In a sharply worded statement, the Department of Education criticized Harvard for what it described as a “troubling entitlement mindset,” calling out the university’s refusal to enact changes aimed at combating antisemitism on campus. The proposed changes, sent by the White House last week, included reforms to governance, admissions, hiring practices, and academic oversight.
Harvard dismissed the demands on Monday, accusing the administration of attempting to “control” the university and infringe on its independence. University President Alan Garber said in a letter to the Harvard community that complying with the administration’s conditions would mean surrendering Harvard’s constitutional rights and academic freedom.
Garber emphasized that while the university is committed to addressing antisemitism, the government’s directives went far beyond that objective, amounting to direct interference in the university’s intellectual environment.
Among the White House’s proposals were measures requiring Harvard to discipline students involved in campus protests, eliminate diversity and inclusion initiatives, and report individuals deemed “hostile” to American values. It also called for third-party audits of academic programs and faculty.
The administration’s decision marks the first major federal funding freeze targeting a prominent U.S. university over resistance to policy changes tied to antisemitism and campus unrest. It follows similar action taken earlier this year when $400 million in funding was pulled from Columbia University after it agreed to some of the administration’s stipulations.
Trump has repeatedly criticized elite universities for failing to protect Jewish students, especially during pro-Palestinian protests sparked by the war in Gaza and U.S. support for Israel. In recent months, his administration has intensified scrutiny of institutions accused of tolerating antisemitic rhetoric or activity.
The funding freeze comes after months of escalating tension, including congressional hearings in late 2023 where top university leaders faced intense questioning over their handling of antisemitic incidents. The controversy contributed to the resignation of Harvard’s previous president, Claudine Gay.
Harvard faculty have filed a lawsuit challenging the administration’s actions, arguing they violate free speech and academic independence. Meanwhile, the university faces ongoing pressure as the administration reviews billions in long-term grant commitments.
