Trump Administration Slashes Over $400 Million in Grants to Columbia University Amid Antisemitism Concerns
In a bold move to combat rising antisemitism, the Trump administration has cut more than $400 million in federal grants to Columbia University, with potential for further action.
The Trump administration took decisive action on Friday by announcing the withdrawal of over $400 million in federal grants from Columbia University. This decision stems from the university’s failure to adequately address the growing issue of antisemitism on its campus. The Departments of Health and Human Services (HHS), Education (DoED), and the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) have been actively reviewing over $5 billion in federal grants to Columbia, prompted by investigations into potential violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act related to antisemitism.
Just days after initiating this comprehensive review, the Trump administration has already begun to act, slashing significant funds as a direct response to the ongoing antisemitic activities at Columbia. Sources close to the matter, who wish to remain anonymous, revealed that the rescinded funds were primarily from HHS and DoED, a clear signal of the administration’s commitment to tackling this issue head-on.
The backdrop to this financial cut includes recent anti-Israel protests at Columbia, which have been reminiscent of the widespread student encampments seen across the country following Hamas’ attack on innocent Israelis in October 2023. The situation escalated to the point where students attempted to take over a campus library, resulting in nine arrests, as reported by the New York Post.
Linda McMahon, Trump’s Secretary of Education, visited Columbia University on Friday to engage directly with university leaders about these serious concerns. In her statement, McMahon highlighted the distressing situation where Jewish students have been repeatedly assaulted and harassed, disrupting their right to education. She emphasized that institutions receiving federal funds must protect all students from discrimination, questioning Columbia’s ability to continue receiving government funding given its apparent failure to do so.
This move aligns with President Donald Trump’s executive orders aimed at cracking down on antisemitism, particularly in academic settings. The establishment of a multi-agency Task Force to Combat Antisemitism underlines the administration’s proactive approach. The task force’s first significant action was the review of Columbia’s grant funds, demonstrating a clear intent to enforce accountability.
Columbia University responded by pledging to work with the federal government to restore its funding, acknowledging the seriousness of the situation and committing to combat antisemitism and ensure the safety of its community. As the review continues, the possibility of further funding cuts looms, reflecting the Trump administration’s unwavering stance on this critical issue.