Trump seeks $1B from Harvard in federal funding dispute

(The Center Square) – President Donald Trump is now seeking a $1 billion payment from Harvard University as part of an effort to resolve an ongoing dispute with the Ivy League over alleged discrimination violations.

Starting in 2025, the Trump administration has threatened to withhold federal funds from Harvard and other universities, citing concerns related to campus protests over the war in Gaza, diversity programs and transgender policies.

Administration officials and Harvard representatives have held discussions for several months. In September, Trump said Harvard would need to pay $500 million to regain access to federal funding.

But Trump this week said he was increasing that number to $1 billion following Harvard’s failure to pay the $500 million.

Former Harvard President Claudine Gay criticized that proposal, calling the amount arbitrary and unjustified.

Harvard has filed two lawsuits challenging the administration’s actions, arguing it is being penalized for declining to adopt the ad...