Trump administration found in violation of law for withholding funding from Harvard, verdict by judge announced

In a significant ruling, Judge Allison D. Burroughs of the U.S. District Court in Boston has decided in favour of Harvard University, giving the institution new leverage in settlement talks with the White House. The ruling marks a legal victory for Harvard, ending the freeze on nearly $2.2 billion in research funds imposed by the Trump administration.

The dispute began in April when the administration sent a letter to Harvard, attempting to condition its access to federal research money on the university's acquiescence to a range of demands. These demands included audits, the establishment of "merit-based" admissions and hiring policies, the shutdown of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, and an examination of programs and departments that most fuel antisemitic harassment or reflect ideological capture.

Harvard refused these demands on April 14, prompting the administration to announce it would begin cutting off funding that the university had long relied on to pay for research. The university responded by suing the government, accusing it of hastily barreling past the thicket of laws and regulations that govern how federal funding can be revoked.

The judge's ruling came after both Harvard University and the government asked for summary judgment. Judge Burroughs appeared skeptical of the government's position during the oral arguments on July 21. In an 84-page ruling, Judge Burroughs wrote that fighting against antisemitism and protecting constitutional rights, including free speech, are important and should not be sacrificed for each other.

The judge emphasized the need for the courts to safeguard academic freedom and freedom of speech as required by the Constitution. Judge Burroughs also stated that important research should not be improperly subjected to arbitrary and procedurally infirm grant terminations.

The Trump administration had previously accused Harvard University of having a "leftist extremist" orientation and inadequate measures against antisemitism, particularly related to pro-Palestinian protests. The administration had also demanded the monitoring of foreign students' social media activities. However, these allegations were not part of the judge's ruling.

Harvard University has stated that it is currently taking steps to combat antisemitism and is willing to do more if necessary. The ruling may not be the final word on the matter, but it serves as an interim rebuff of the Trump administration's campaign to remake elite higher education.

Trump administration found in violation of law for withholding funding from Harvard, verdict by judge announced