Harvard University is under what it refers to as “grave consequences” as U.S. former President Donald Trump increases pressure on the institution. Trump has escalated his attacks on the Ivy League institution, calling on the Internal Revenue Service to revisit Harvard’s tax-exempt status based on claims of political bias and misuse of federal funds.
The escalation occurs in the context of more widespread tensions between conservative leaders and elite academic institutions. Trump has criticized Harvard for advancing a partisan agenda, freezing $2.2 billion in federal funding, and promising to withdraw financial privileges that accrue to the university’s operations and endowment.
Harvard officials had complained about what they consider to be a politically inspired assault that would harm not only their university but also academic freedom nationwide. “This sets a dangerous precedent,” a university spokesman said.
Legal experts opine that such moves, if implemented, would fundamentally transform the way American universities function and are financed. Harvard is ready to defend its practices in court and in public debate, with federal oversight hanging over it.
