Bulwark Takes Harvard Makes A Stand Against Trump’s Crackdown
Apr 16, 2025
Join Bill Kristol and Jonathan Cohn, a senior policy advisor to Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and former HuffPost correspondent, as they dive into Harvard's response to Trump's funding threats. They discuss the broader implications for universities and free speech, the legal battles over federal grants, and the disconnect between policymakers and public sentiment. Cohn also touches on the challenges of standing against authoritarianism and the shifting public opinion on immigration, adding a layer of urgency to the conversation.
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Harvard Stands Against Political Overreach
- The Trump administration's attempt to cut Harvard funding is arbitrary, targeting policies they dislike rather than legal violations.
- Harvard's strong stand symbolizes a defense of free speech against intrusive government overreach.
Legal Basis for Cuts Questionable
- Legally, it is unclear how the administration can cut all federal funding to Harvard due to issues in specific departments.
- The usual processes for grant withdrawal are ignored, highlighting the administration's disregard for due process.
Universities Targeted for Control
- The administration's campaign to discipline universities aims to control independent institutions of thought.
- Despite claiming to promote free speech, they actually seek biased allegiance and suppress criticism.