Harvard University filed a federal lawsuit on Monday against the Trump administration. The suit claims the government unlawfully froze $2.2 billion in research grants and is attempting to assert “unprecedented and improper” control over the institution.
In a message to the university community, Harvard President Alan Garber said the administration’s actions could cause “severe and long-lasting” damage to both the university and the nation’s innovation efforts.
Lawsuit Challenges Constitutionality of Federal Actions
The complaint, filed in a Massachusetts federal court, asks a judge to declare the freeze unconstitutional. Harvard also seeks an order to restore the funding immediately.
The dispute stems from demands by the administration. These included a student opinion audit and a ban on international students viewed as “hostile to American values.” Harvard refused to comply. In response, the administration halted its federal research support.
In the 51-page filing, Harvard argues that the freeze has no logical link to antisemitism concerns. It says the freeze affects vital projects in medicine, science, and technology, research that supports U.S. health, security, and innovation.
“The government has not, and cannot, show any rational link between these concerns and the research projects it is halting,” the lawsuit states.
The White House did not respond to media requests on Monday.
President Trump added fuel to the conflict by suggesting Harvard’s tax-exempt status be revoked. The university argues this threat has no legal basis.
This lawsuit is part of a broader battle between elite universities and the federal government. The administration has accused colleges of failing to address antisemitism on campus.
Last month, Columbia University accepted similar demands to avoid losing $400 million in funding. Princeton University is also suing the administration after a $4 million funding cut, which was partially linked to its climate research.
With billions at risk, Harvard’s case could reshape how federal agencies interact with academic institutions.
