Trump Cuts Target Harvard, Broader University Funding

The Trump administration has enacted major cuts and restrictions on U.S. higher education funding, including freezing over $11 billion in university research funds and specifically revoking Harvard University's ability to host foreign students while terminating $60 million in federal grants over allegations of promoting anti-American activities and failing to address anti-Semitism. These measures have forced elite institutions like Harvard to self-fund research projects, a strategy widely viewed as unsustainable. Programs aiding disadvantaged and minority students, including TRIO and specialized STEM initiatives for Latino families, have also faced elimination or significant funding loss, raising concerns about equity and future innovation. University leaders have criticized these actions, warning they threaten academic freedom, research progress, and America's investment in talent. Meanwhile, other countries such as China are expanding support for science and technology, potentially challenging U.S. global competitiveness. These developments have heightened concerns about the long-term sustainability and inclusivity of U.S. research and higher education.