College Leaders Slam Trump in Joint Letter: ‘Political Interference’

Tuesday, April 22, 2025 — In a rare and unified stand, the leaders of America’s top colleges have accused the Trump Administration of “political interference” and “undue government intrusion” into higher education institutions.

The controversy erupted after the administration moved to impose governance and leadership changes at several universities, threatening to withhold billions in federal research grants if the changes were not implemented.

In response, more than 100 college presidents and chancellors co-signed a joint statement published by the American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U). The statement condemned what they described as coercive tactics that put public funding at risk for political gain.

Harvard at the Center of the Dispute

At the heart of the legal and political battle is Harvard University, which is currently resisting demands to overhaul its internal leadership structures. In retaliation, the Trump Administration has placed a $2.2 billion freeze on federal funding directed to the Ivy League institution — a move Harvard has challenged in court.

The Department of Education reportedly justified the funding suspension by citing concerns over transparency, equity in governance, and alleged “ideological bias” within some academic departments.

But critics argue that the move sets a dangerous precedent for political control over independent educational institutions.

Legal and Academic Pushback Grows

The growing dispute has already triggered multiple lawsuits, with Harvard and other institutions calling the administration’s actions unconstitutional and in violation of academic freedom. Legal experts suggest the cases could reach the Supreme Court if the freeze is upheld in lower courts.

The AAC&U’s joint letter marks the strongest collective resistance yet from academic leaders during the current administration.