U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday suggested that other universities may face scrutiny following a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) move to revoke Harvard University’s ability to enroll international students.
Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump said Harvard would “have to change its ways” after DHS action. “Billions of dollars has been paid to Harvard. How ridiculous is that? Billions… Harvard’s going to have to change its ways. So are some others,” he said.
When asked whether similar measures could apply to other institutions, Trump responded, “We’re taking a look at a lot of things.”
Trump also criticized Harvard’s academic standards, pointing to a remedial math course the university introduced. “Where the students can’t add two and two and they go to Harvard. They want remedial math, so why would they get in? How can someone who can’t add get into Harvard?” he said.
However, a federal judge intervened on Friday, temporarily blocking the DHS action. U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs issued a ruling halting the move while Harvard’s lawsuit proceeds.
Harvard had earlier filed a lawsuit in a Boston federal court, arguing the administration’s action was unconstitutional and retaliatory. The university said the move violated its First Amendment rights and would have an “immediate and devastating effect” on more than 7,000 international students.
“With the stroke of a pen, the government has sought to erase a quarter of Harvard’s student body—international students who contribute significantly to the University and its mission,” Harvard stated in its complaint. “Without its international students, Harvard is not Harvard.”
This legal battle comes amid ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and Harvard. Recent actions include a $3 billion funding cut, multiple investigations, and threats to strip the university of its tax-exempt status. Harvard has filed a separate lawsuit over the funding reduction.
