House Committee Investigates Harvard's Civil Rights Compliance

Republican leaders on the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform have launched a formal investigation into Harvard University, alleging noncompliance with civil rights laws following the university’s rejection of Trump administration demands to address campus antisemitism. The committee, led by Rep. James Comer and Rep. Elise Stefanik, has requested documents related to antisemitic incidents, disciplinary actions, diversity programs, and international student policies. Lawmakers argue that Harvard’s refusal to accept proposed reforms, which included changes to disciplinary procedures and student vetting, indicates a disregard for Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and misuse of significant federal funding. The Trump administration has escalated pressure by threatening to strip Harvard of federal funding and tax-exempt status, while also canceling certain grants and raising the possibility of restricting the university’s ability to recruit international students. Harvard defends its stance as necessary to preserve institutional independence, contrasting its response with Columbia University, which accepted administration demands. The investigation also highlights broader Republican concerns about perceived liberal biases and antisemitism on elite campuses, especially amid recent pro-Palestinian protests.