Trump Threatens Harvard's Tax-Exempt Status

President Donald Trump has threatened to revoke Harvard University's tax-exempt status following the university's refusal to comply with his administration's demands, including cutting diversity programs and changing admissions policies. This action is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to reshape American higher education, citing concerns about antisemitism and alleged support for Palestinian militant groups. In response, Harvard's President Alan Garber has stated that the university will not negotiate over its independence or constitutional rights. The federal government has already frozen over $2.2 billion in grants and $60 million in contracts to Harvard as a result of the standoff. This conflict highlights a significant test of the limits of governmental power over private institutions and raises concerns about academic freedom. Despite the financial repercussions, Harvard remains defiant and is backed by several Democratic lawmakers and academics.