Education Secretary Linda McMahon said Tuesday she has spoken with the presidents of Harvard and Columbia universities to ensure they are “abiding by the law,” asserting the Trump administration’s funding freezes are based on civil rights, not First Amendment issues.
“This is not about free speech. This is about civil rights,” McMahon told CNBC, referencing antisemitism concerns following last year’s pro-Palestinian protests. She said the administration aims to protect student safety and foster lawful campus environments.
The administration froze over $2 billion in federal funding for Harvard after it rejected policy changes related to hiring, admissions, and diversity practices. Harvard responded with a lawsuit, accusing the government of violating the First Amendment and seeking restoration of funds. Columbia lost $400 million in grants but agreed to negotiate, which McMahon said is progressing.
McMahon defended the administration’s stance and confirmed it will fight Harvard’s lawsuit, stating the case rests on “very solid grounds” tied to civil rights enforcement.
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