Trump Administration Freezes Harvard’s Future Federal Grants Over Policy Disputes

The U.S. Department of Education has halted billions in future research grants to Harvard University, demanding compliance with Trump administration policies on campus antisemitism, race-conscious admissions, and faculty diversity, Dawn reported. Education Secretary Linda McMahon’s letter warned Harvard to cease seeking federal funding until it addresses concerns, including allegations of stifling conservative voices and abandoning academic rigor.

Harvard condemned the move as “unprecedented government overreach,” vowing to fight the freeze in court, citing risks to critical medical and scientific research. The university, which holds a $53 billion endowment, relies on federal grants for unrestricted funding.

The escalation follows months of clashes over pro-Palestinian protests, which the administration claims foster antisemitism—a charge protesters reject. Last month, Harvard sued after $2.3 billion in existing grants were suspended, calling the cuts politically motivated. The freeze marks a strategic shift by the Trump administration, which previously targeted current funding. Legal experts warn the precedent could reshape federal-academic relations.