Federal Grants

Tensions between Donald Trump and Harvard University intensified after Trump criticized its academic standards, claiming some students struggle with basic math, amid federal actions targeting the institution. The Trump administration froze $2.2 billion in grants, alleging antisemitism tolerance and controversial DEI policies. On May 22, Homeland Security revoked Harvard’s certification to enroll international students, accusing it of fostering anti-Jewish sentiment. Harvard President Claudine Gay denounced the moves as political overreach, filing an emergency lawsuit. Analysts see the conflict as part of broader ideological clashes over academic freedom and federal oversight, with Harvard’s $51 billion endowment buffering immediate financial impacts but legal outcomes potentially reshaping university autonomy.