Radio Atlantic

Why Trump Wants to Control Universities

54 snips
Apr 3, 2025
Adam Harris, a senior fellow at New America, shares insights on how the Trump administration's policies mirror tactics seen in Hungary under Viktor Orbán. He discusses the rising trend of conservative activists aiming to reshape universities, illustrating how attacks on diversity and academic autonomy are reshaping the educational landscape. Harris also explores the emergence of a conservative elite, highlighting institutions like Hillsdale College as models of patriotic education, and reflects on the implications for democracy in the U.S.
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ANECDOTE

Rufo's Pilgrimage to Hungary

  • Christopher Rufo visited Budapest and wrote "Orban's War", analyzing Viktor Orban's conservative influence.
  • This essay became a roadmap for political strategies, especially regarding universities.
INSIGHT

Conservative View on Universities

  • Conservatives view universities as contributing to the decline of Western civilization.
  • They aim to reclaim these institutions to promote their cultural values.
INSIGHT

Rufo's Influence on Trump

  • Christopher Rufo's work highlighted diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies.
  • His focus on negative examples shaped Trump's scrutiny of diversity principles.
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