Trump Administration Withholds $400 Million in Federal Funding from Columbia University Over Alleged Inaction on Anti-Semitism Claims

The Trump administration announced on Friday its decision to withhold approximately $400 million in federal funding from Columbia University. This decision is based on allegations that the university has not adequately addressed ongoing harassment of Jewish students on its campus. The announcement was made by Education Secretary Linda McMahon, who emphasized the importance of compliance with federal antidiscrimination laws as a condition for receiving federal grants.

The administration’s decision follows a notification from its Joint Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism, which informed Columbia University of an impending comprehensive review of its federal grants and contracts. This review aims to assess the university’s adherence to federal requirements regarding discrimination and harassment. The task force’s involvement highlights the administration’s focus on ensuring that educational institutions uphold federal standards in protecting students from discrimination.

Columbia University has not yet publicly responded to the administration’s decision or the specific allegations of inaction regarding harassment of Jewish students. The university’s compliance with federal antidiscrimination laws is now under scrutiny, and the outcome of the review could have significant implications for its federal funding and future operations.

This development underscores the broader national conversation about the responsibilities of educational institutions in addressing discrimination and harassment. It also reflects the federal government’s role in enforcing compliance with antidiscrimination laws to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all students.