The Trump administration is moving to cut ties with Harvard University, asking federal agencies to end their contracts with the school, which are estimated to be worth around $100 million. This decision comes as tensions rise between the administration and the university over various policy disagreements.
A letter from the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) was sent out recently, instructing agencies to report any contracts they have canceled with Harvard by June 6. The letter encourages agencies to consider other vendors for future services instead of Harvard.
This action follows a series of escalating conflicts between Harvard and the Trump administration. In April, the administration froze over $2.2 billion in contracts and grants to Harvard after the university refused to comply with demands to change its hiring and admissions practices.
In mid-May, a federal task force warned Harvard that it could lose an additional $450 million in federal grants. This threat came after Harvard’s president, Alan Garber, denied allegations that the school was politically biased. He emphasized that Harvard operates independently of any political party.
Harvard has responded by filing a lawsuit to challenge the funding freeze, claiming the administration’s actions are unlawful and infringe on academic freedom and First Amendment rights. A court hearing regarding this matter is scheduled for July.
In addition to the funding issues, the Trump administration has threatened Harvard’s tax-exempt status and recently revoked its ability to admit international students. Harvard quickly filed a lawsuit against this decision, and a judge has temporarily blocked the administration’s move.
Garber has stated that the university is committed to its core values of education and truth-seeking. He insists that Harvard has made significant progress in addressing concerns about campus safety for Jewish students, which has been a point of contention.
As the situation continues to develop, Harvard remains firm in its stance, asserting its independence and dedication to academic principles.