The Trump administration is intensifying its crackdown on Harvard University, instructing federal agencies to terminate or reallocate remaining contracts with the institution, valued at approximately $100 million. A letter from the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) directs agencies to submit a list of terminated contracts by June 6, citing discriminatory admissions and hiring practices, as well as failure to protect Jewish students from harassment.
This move follows a series of punitive actions against Harvard, including the cancellation of nearly $3 billion in federal research grants and efforts to revoke the school’s ability to enroll international students. Foreign students, who make up 27% of Harvard’s enrollment, face increasing uncertainty. A federal judge recently blocked Homeland Security from enforcing the ban pending a hearing, but the administration continues to halt new visa appointments.
Hundreds of students and faculty rallied in support of international students, with many expressing fears of retaliation or deportation. Protesters rejected claims that the crackdown was tied to combating antisemitism, arguing instead that it targets diversity and academic freedom.
The GSA letter, signed by commissioner Josh Gruenbaum, also accuses Harvard of defying the Supreme Court's 2023 ruling against race-based admissions. Harvard has filed lawsuits challenging these measures, arguing they infringe on free speech and academic independence protected by the First Amendment.
Harvard President Alan Garber, in a recent NPR interview, called the administration's decisions "perplexing" and emphasized Harvard’s historic mission to serve the nation. The university has not issued an official statement in response to the latest action.
This escalating conflict signals a broader political effort to reshape higher education policy and funding, with Harvard becoming a central battleground in debates over diversity, free expression, and government overreach.