The Trump administration sent demands to Harvard University under the guise of combating antisemitism, including hiring professors and admitting students based on viewpoint diversity. Harvard refused and was sued by the administration, leading to a freeze of $2.2 billion in federal funding. Harvard’s lawsuit alleges that the administration’s actions violate the university’s First Amendment rights, as they were coerced into promoting speech the government finds valuable.
Harvard’s case against the administration is strong, as the government has not alleged any violations of laws by Harvard. The Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination, including antisemitism, and the lack of specificity in the funding freeze should doom Trump’s actions. The Supreme Court precedent also prevents the government from using funding threats to coerce policy changes in institutions, which could work in Harvard’s favor.
Despite the funding freeze impacting research programs, Harvard is well-equipped to survive financially. The university’s refusal to bow to Trump’s demands allows it to define itself as a place of high principle and academic freedom. Trump’s attempts to bully Harvard with money are unlikely to succeed, as Harvard’s substantial endowment ensures its survival. The situation may even strengthen Harvard’s reputation as an academic and intellectual beacon in a world facing base bargaining and fear.
