Trump Administration Targets Universities Over Antisemitism, Funding Cuts

The Trump administration is intensifying its assault on American universities, targeting institutions for alleged failures to address anti-Semitism and for promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. This campaign follows a trend initiated by Lewis Powell in 1971, who warned about left-wing influence in academia, and draws parallels with Hungary's conservative policies under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. Recently, Columbia University was stripped of $400 million in federal funding due to accusations of mishandling anti-Semitic harassment cases, prompting it to implement stricter regulations. The Department of Education has threatened numerous universities with funding cuts if they do not comply with federal civil rights obligations regarding Jewish students and racial discrimination. Critics argue that these actions are part of a broader Kulturkampf against institutions perceived as hostile to Trumpism. The administration’s approach has led to significant financial strain on universities, resulting in hiring freezes and layoffs as they navigate these new pressures.