Trump slams Harvard as a “disgrace,” threatens to cut federal funding over political dispute

US President Donald Trump intensified his ongoing battle with Harvard University on Thursday, accusing the prestigious institution of abusing its tax-exempt status and promoting “hate and stupidity.” In a series of fiery remarks made at the White House and on his Truth Social platform, Trump called Harvard a “disgrace” and demanded it be stripped of government research contracts.

“I think Harvard is a disgrace,” Trump said to reporters in the Oval Office, further escalating tensions between the federal government and one of the country’s most iconic universities. He criticized the university for refusing outside political supervision of its admissions, hiring practices, and overall ideological direction.

In a Truth Social post, Trump wrote, “Harvard is a JOKE, teaches Hate and Stupidity, and should no longer receive Federal Funds.” He went on to say that the university should no longer be considered a part of any list of the world’s great academic institutions.

The White House this week ordered a freeze on $2.2 billion in federal research funding to Harvard. At the same time, Republican lawmakers announced an investigation into whether the university has violated civil rights laws.

Harvard University has pushed back strongly. Its president, Alan Garber, issued a firm statement rejecting the administration’s pressure campaign, saying the institution will not “negotiate over its independence or its constitutional rights.” He cited the First Amendment, which guarantees freedom of speech and academic freedom, as central to the university’s stance.

Harvard is the first major American university to take a public stand against the administration’s attempts to impose political oversight. University leaders across the country are closely watching the developments, as the implications could reshape the landscape of academic freedom in the US.

The clash also comes amid broader immigration-related actions affecting students, with over 1,000 international students having their visas revoked or legal status terminated since March, according to an Associated Press review.

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With the 2024 elections approaching, Trump’s attacks on elite academic institutions may serve to further rally his base, while raising critical questions about the balance between federal authority and institutional independence in higher education.