Serious Trouble
The Emerging Presumption of Irregularity
Apr 23, 2025
Harvard is pushing back against the Trump administration's attempts to impose federal control, raising questions about academic freedom. The Supreme Court recently challenged the government on deportation orders linked to the Alien Enemies Act. Tensions between the press and administration are highlighted as the Associated Press faces exclusion from press pools. Additionally, legal battles around high-profile defamation and bribery cases reveal complexities in accountability and the justice process, painting a vivid picture of today’s legal landscape.
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Quick takeaways
- Harvard's lawsuit against the Trump administration highlights the critical issue of academic autonomy in the face of federal overreach.
- The contrasting responses between Harvard and Columbia reveal differing strategies regarding compliance with governmental demands on institutional governance.
Deep dives
Harvard's Legal Battle with the Federal Government
Harvard University is currently engaged in a lawsuit against the federal government following a demand letter from the Trump administration. The letter included a series of perceived unreasonable requests, including significant changes to Harvard's administration and academic practices, particularly around issues of anti-Semitism and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Harvard found the demands intrusive and a violation of its autonomy, arguing that they were an unconstitutional attempt to interfere with its governance. By rejecting these demands, Harvard upholds its First Amendment rights, emphasizing that it cannot be coerced into compliance through threats of funding cuts.
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