The DSR Network The Daily Blast: Trump’s Angry New Attack on Harvard Is Already Blowing Up in His Face
May 23, 2025
Jonathan Friedman, a commentator on free speech and academic issues from PEN America, dives into President Trump's aggressive move against Harvard University, threatening its ability to enroll foreign students. He discusses how this backfired, sparking unity among universities and public support for higher education. The conversation highlights the potential legal actions by Harvard and emphasizes the broader implications of governmental pressure on academic freedom, stressing the critical role of international students in enriching American universities.
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Trump's Threat to Harvard
- The Trump administration revoked Harvard's ability to enroll foreign students as a political threat to other universities.
- This unprecedented move aims to intimidate institutions into compliance with the administration's demands.
Impact on International Students
- Revoking foreign student visas disrupts lives and undermines long-term academic contributions.
- International students bring unique expertise that advances knowledge and benefits the U.S.
Excessive Government Demands
- The administration's demands for detailed information on foreign students are excessive and legally questionable.
- Harvard's resistance highlights the intrusive and Orwellian nature of these data requests.
