Federal Judge Hears Harvard Lawsuit Over $3 Billion Funding Freeze

Harvard University is engaged in a federal court battle with the Trump administration over the freezing of nearly $3 billion in research funding, with the government citing concerns over antisemitism and the university's diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies. The administration argues that Harvard's response to pro-Palestine protests and alleged antisemitic incidents on campus justify the funding cuts. Harvard counters that the freeze is an unconstitutional attempt to control its academic enterprise and violates free speech rights. The case is being heard by U.S. District Judge Allison D. Burroughs, who has previously ruled against the Trump administration on immigration matters and has expressed skepticism about linking research funding to combatting antisemitism. Both sides are urging a swift ruling due to looming grant deadlines, with the university warning that the dispute threatens its research operations. Negotiations have reportedly stalled despite President Trump's recent suggestion of an impending deal.