Harvard Challenges Trump Administration in Court Over Research Funding Cuts

Harvard University appeared in federal court Monday in a pivotal case in its battle with the Trump administration, arguing that the government illegally cut $2.6 billion in federal funding. President Donald Trump's administration has imposed sanctions on the university, accusing it of being a hotbed of liberalism and antisemitism. Harvard has resisted the funding cuts, which could lead to the loss of research and the closing of labs.

The lawsuit represents a primary challenge to the administration and is being closely watched in higher education. Harvard's lawyer argued that the government is trying to control the university's operations. The case is before U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs, who previously blocked the administration's efforts to keep Harvard from hosting international students.

The government claims it has the authority to cancel research grants when institutions are not in compliance with the president's directives. Harvard's lawsuit accuses the administration of retaliation after rejecting demands related to campus activities and admissions. The case is ongoing, with a ruling expected later.

Harvard has the nation's largest endowment but warned it cannot fully absorb the federal funding cuts. The Trump administration denies the cuts were retaliatory and argues it has the discretion to cancel contracts for policy reasons. The administration has also targeted Harvard's hosting of foreign students and threatened its tax-exempt status.

According to the source: AP News.