Obama Backs Harvard in Showdown with Trump Over Academic Freedom

Barack Obama has praised Harvard University for standing its ground against the Trump administration’s controversial demands, framing the move as a critical stand for academic freedom.

Former U.S. President Barack Obama has voiced strong support for Harvard University’s refusal to comply with conditions set by the Trump administration in exchange for federal funding. The White House had threatened to freeze $2.2 billion in grants and $60 million in contracts unless the university imposed a mask ban, restructured certain programs accused of fostering antisemitism, and scrapped its diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

Calling the administration’s approach “ham-handed” and “unlawful,” Obama commended Harvard—his alma mater—for defending academic values. “Harvard has set an example for other higher-ed institutions… while taking concrete steps to ensure all students can benefit from intellectual inquiry, rigorous debate, and mutual respect,” he said. He urged other universities to follow suit.

Obama’s statement echoes his recent remarks at Hamilton College, where he warned Americans that upholding democracy might require sacrifices, especially in the face of political intimidation targeting universities and law firms.

Meanwhile, a U.S. Department of Education task force criticized Harvard’s stance, accusing elite universities of an “entitlement mindset” and stressing that federal funding comes with the obligation to uphold civil rights.

The controversy is part of a wider Republican push targeting college campuses following protests over Gaza in 2024. President Trump has labeled protestors antisemitic and a national security threat, threatening to cut funding to several top universities, including Princeton, Columbia, and Northwestern.

Homeland Security has also announced it will monitor social media for antisemitic activity to deny immigration benefits to individuals suspected of terrorist sympathies.