Harvard University boldly rejected the Trump administration's demands concerning hiring, admissions, and curriculum. This action, described as 'of momentous significance' by former federal appeals court judge J. Michael Luttig, is seen as a potential turning point in the president's conflict with American institutions.
In response, federal officials announced they would freeze $2.2 billion in multiyear grants and a $60 million contract to Harvard. This represents a fraction of the university's total federal funding, with the majority allocated to affiliated hospitals. The remaining portion supports research in areas such as space exploration, cancer, and Alzheimer's disease.
Wesleyan University president Michael S. Roth praised Harvard's decision, likening the situation to stopping a bully. The move is anticipated to empower other institutions and entities targeted by the White House to resist similar pressures.