In a move intensifying its conflict with Harvard, the Trump administration has directed federal agencies to evaluate their contracts with the institution, potentially impacting $100 million in funding due to allegations of discrimination and antisemitism.
Trump Administration Targets Harvard Funding in Ongoing Dispute
Trump Administration Targets Harvard Funding in Ongoing Dispute
The federal government plans to review and possibly withdraw up to $100 million in contracts with Harvard University amid rising tensions.
The Trump administration is set to ramp up its ongoing quarrel with Harvard University by asking federal agencies to reassess their grants, potentially cutting or reallocating around $100 million in funding. A senior official from the White House indicated that a letter would be sent to the Government Services Agency (GSA), instructing agencies to identify existing contracts with Harvard and consider whether they should be terminated or redirected.
The GSA is expected to suggest that each agency end contracts it finds lacking based on the administration's standards. This initiative is part of a broader strategy questioning the legitimacy of certain federal funds received by Harvard, particularly in light of recent accusations against the university regarding discrimination and antisemitism.
Although the White House is not poised to immediately revoke funds, the review could significantly alter the financial landscape for Harvard, which has reportedly had about 30 contracts affected. The administration clarified that if grants are critical for specific agency operations, those agencies could advocate for the continued support.
This shift in policy comes on the heels of a turbulent few months for Harvard, characterized by escalating political and legal clashes with the Trump administration. Last week, the administration took further action by revoking Harvard's capacity to enroll international students and host foreign researchers, creating widespread confusion among the student body. In response, Harvard filed a lawsuit against the administration, claiming violations of its First Amendment rights and federal law.
The GSA is expected to suggest that each agency end contracts it finds lacking based on the administration's standards. This initiative is part of a broader strategy questioning the legitimacy of certain federal funds received by Harvard, particularly in light of recent accusations against the university regarding discrimination and antisemitism.
Although the White House is not poised to immediately revoke funds, the review could significantly alter the financial landscape for Harvard, which has reportedly had about 30 contracts affected. The administration clarified that if grants are critical for specific agency operations, those agencies could advocate for the continued support.
This shift in policy comes on the heels of a turbulent few months for Harvard, characterized by escalating political and legal clashes with the Trump administration. Last week, the administration took further action by revoking Harvard's capacity to enroll international students and host foreign researchers, creating widespread confusion among the student body. In response, Harvard filed a lawsuit against the administration, claiming violations of its First Amendment rights and federal law.
