Cambridge, Massachusetts – Harvard University filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration in federal court on Monday, challenging the significant cuts to the University’s research funding. The lawsuit accuses the White House of engaging in an arbitrary and unconstitutional effort to penalize Harvard for defending its constitutional rights. This legal action follows reports that the administration planned to cut an additional $1 billion in federal grants and contracts from Harvard, on top of the $2.2 billion cut announced the previous week.

The clash between Harvard and the Trump administration marks a significant legal battle as Harvard seeks to resist the government’s efforts to reduce its funding in exchange for various concessions, such as federal audits of its programs and screening of international students. The lawsuit filed in a United States district court seeks to halt and declare unlawful the $2.2 billion freeze, along with any freezes related to unconstitutional conditions outlined in letters from the administration.

Harvard’s legal team argues that the administration’s freeze on research funding is an attempt to pressure the University into making changes to its governance, academic programs, and hiring practices. The lawsuit alleges that the freeze violates the First Amendment by imposing viewpoint-based conditions on Harvard’s funding. Additionally, Harvard accuses federal agencies of bypassing required procedures under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act.

University President Alan M. Garber addressed Harvard affiliates, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to upholding its legal obligations and fulfilling its societal role without undue government interference. Garber highlighted the administration’s demands as part of a broader campaign that uses concerns of campus antisemitism as a pretext.

The lawsuit names several federal agencies as defendants, including the Department of Education, Department of Justice, and Department of Health and Human Services, which have spearheaded actions against Harvard. Harvard’s legal representatives include individuals with ties to President Trump, signaling a high-profile legal battle ahead.

The legal action comes amidst escalating tensions between Harvard and the Trump administration, with the University’s refusal to comply with demands resulting in funding cuts, investigations, and threats to its tax-exempt status. The developments indicate a potential courtroom showdown between Massachusetts Hall and the White House over issues of federal authority and constitutional rights.

As the lawsuit unfolds, Harvard continues to defend its academic independence and constitutional rights against what it perceives as undue government intrusion. The legal battle represents a critical moment in the ongoing conflict between Harvard University and the Trump administration, underscoring the broader implications for academic freedom and institutional autonomy.