Trump Plans to Revoke Harvard's Tax-Exempt Status Amid Legal Dispute

The Trump administration has escalated its campaign against Harvard University by freezing new federal grants and threatening to revoke the university's tax-exempt status, citing concerns over alleged antisemitism, the management of Harvard's endowment, and resistance to removing DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) policies. The Education Department claims these actions aim to hold Harvard accountable for what it describes as 'terrible behavior' and a failure to address antisemitism on campus. In response, Harvard has filed lawsuits against the administration, arguing that the government's actions are unlawful and would jeopardize the university's educational mission, financial aid programs, and research initiatives. Legal experts note that revoking tax-exempt status is a lengthy process typically beyond direct presidential control, and Harvard has assembled a prominent legal team to challenge the administration's moves. Critics warn that stripping the university of tax benefits could significantly impact its finances and ability to enroll low- and middle-income students. The dispute has become a high-profile battle over the future of higher education, with both sides preparing for a protracted legal fight.