Blue States Sue Trump Over HHS Cuts, Sec. McMahon Bodies Harvard | May 6, 2025
May 6, 2025
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Nineteen states are taking legal action against the Trump administration over cuts to the Department of Health and Human Services, claiming it could harm public health programs. The podcast delves into the controversial gain-of-function research, discussing its implications and recent federal funding bans. Education Secretary Linda McMahon challenges Harvard University, highlighting compliance issues with civil rights laws and questioning the integrity of its admissions practices. The conversation examines the intersection of federal funding and educational ethics.
Nineteen states are suing the Trump administration over HHS cuts, citing concerns for public health and essential services.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon threatens Harvard with loss of federal grants unless it reforms practices violating civil rights laws.
Deep dives
States Challenge Federal Cuts to Health Services
Nineteen states, led by New York and Washington, D.C., are suing the Trump administration over significant cuts to the Department of Health and Human Services, which aim to downsize the department and save approximately $1.8 billion annually. The plan includes layoffs of up to 20,000 employees, which the administration argues will eliminate redundancy and streamline operations to better focus on public health priorities. Critics of the cuts, including New York Attorney General Letitia James, express concerns that these layoffs will harm essential health programs, and they are requesting the court to block the reorganization as unconstitutional. The lawsuit draws attention to the potential impact on state health initiatives, despite no constitutional requirement for a specific employee count in the department.
Executive Order Halts Gain-of-Function Research Funding
The administration has halted federal funding for gain-of-function research in countries such as China and Iran, following concerns that this type of research may have contributed to the COVID-19 pandemic. The executive order strengthens oversight mechanisms for biomedical research and establishes strategies to ensure studies are conducted safely to protect public health. Health and Human Services Secretary RFK Jr. noted that this action is critical, given the historical context of gain-of-function research and its association with bioweapons development in the U.S. The decision underscores a commitment to prevent future public health crises linked to controversial scientific practices.
Harvard University Cut Off from Federal Funds
Education Secretary Linda McMahon announced that Harvard University will no longer be eligible for federal grants unless it reforms specific practices that violate civil rights laws. The administration criticized Harvard for allegedly engaging in racial profiling in its admissions process and for academic standards that have reportedly declined, including the introduction of remedial courses for undergraduates. McMahon described the university's actions as a mockery of higher education, citing incidents of hiring individuals with poor qualifications for teaching roles. The decision highlights a shift towards greater accountability and compliance with federal standards in academic institutions receiving public funding.
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