Harvard University has filed a federal lawsuit against the Trump administration over the freezing of $2.2 billion in federal funding, accusing the government of using financial threats to assert political control over its academic operations.
Filed on Monday in a Massachusetts federal court, the lawsuit marks a sharp escalation in the ongoing conflict between the Ivy League institution and President Donald Trump, who has accused Harvard and other elite universities of tolerating campus anti-Semitism and enforcing liberal bias.
Harvard’s lawsuit argues that the administration’s actions violate the First Amendment and federal regulations, calling them “arbitrary and capricious.” It seeks to overturn the funding freeze and prevent further federal interference in the university’s governance, admissions, and hiring practices.
The Trump administration had demanded that Harvard shut down diversity offices, cooperate with immigration authorities, and accept external oversight. When the university refused, the government halted funding for various research areas, including medical and technological fields unrelated to the allegations.
“This case involves the Government’s efforts to use the withholding of federal funding as leverage to gain control of academic decision making at Harvard,” the lawsuit stated.
On his Truth Social platform, Trump criticized the university, calling Harvard “a joke” and accusing it of teaching “hate and stupidity,” asserting that it should no longer receive federal funds or be considered among the world’s top institutions.
Harvard President Alan Garber condemned the administration’s tactics, citing “numerous investigations” and reaffirming that the university “rejects anti-Semitism and discrimination in all of its forms.” He insisted that Harvard would not compromise on its independence or constitutional rights.
The lawsuit also referenced other institutions facing similar pressure, including Columbia University, some of which have complied with less sweeping federal demands. The Department of Homeland Security has additionally threatened to restrict Harvard’s enrollment of international students, who currently make up over 27% of its student body.
Harvard’s legal challenge highlights a broader political and ideological battle over university governance, freedom of expression, and the role of diversity initiatives in American higher education.
