Obama Sides with Harvard in Clash Against Trump Over Academic Freedom
Barack Obama has entered the escalating battle between Harvard University and Donald Trump’s administration, voicing strong support for his alma mater amid a federal funding freeze and accusations of political interference.
Speaking at Hamilton College, Obama didn’t mince words:
“I have deep differences of opinion with my immediate successor — who is now president once again.”
Tensions flared after the Department of Education froze $2.3 billion in federal funding for Harvard, demanding the university dismantle its diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, restrict campus protests, overhaul its hiring and admissions practices, and curb the influence of “activist” faculty.
Harvard refused to comply.
University President Alan M. Garber stood firm:
“The University will not surrender its independence or its constitutional rights.”
Obama, a graduate of Harvard Law School, showed his support on social media:
“Harvard has set an example by rejecting an unlawful and heavy-handed attempt to stifle academic freedom. Let’s hope other institutions have the courage to do the same.”
The standoff has sparked a national debate — not just over antisemitism or campus protests, but over the broader future of higher education and who ultimately holds the power to shape it.
With Obama now involved, the pressure is mounting on other universities to take a stand.
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