Colleges Push Back Against White House's Tough Tactics

The White House is encountering significant pushback from leading universities regarding its higher education initiatives. The administration has employed aggressive tactics, such as cutting research funds, to coerce schools into aligning with its policies. However, many institutions are firmly resisting.

The "Compact" Controversy

The latest point of contention is a "compact" that links research funding to support for specific policies, including strict gender definitions and restrictions on international students. Five prestigious universities, including MIT and Brown University, have already declined to participate. The White House then attempted to recruit other schools, like Arizona State University, to fill the void, but this effort also faced hurdles.

Virginia University, which initially engaged in discussions, later withdrew. The university stated that tying research funds to policy compliance would compromise research quality and further erode public trust in universities.

Administration's Justification vs. University Concerns

The White House maintains that its firm stance is necessary to protect Jewish students and counterbalance the perceived liberal bias of universities. However, many college leaders view this approach as a direct threat to free speech and academic freedom. The administration's aggressive tactics have made it difficult to garner support, even from potential allies.

Ohio State University's Caution

Ted Carter, president of Ohio State University, was initially open to some of the administration's proposals. However, the recent book banning at the U.S. Naval Academy made him and other leaders more hesitant. Carter even stated that he would have resigned if such bans were implemented during his tenure.

Harvard University's Stance

Alan M. Garber, president of Harvard University, had previously expressed interest in fostering more conservative viewpoints before the 2024 election. However, Harvard became a prime target of the administration. In April, hundreds of college leaders signed a letter protesting government interference. In June, two dozen colleges, including most Ivy League schools, supported Harvard's lawsuit against the administration's research funding halt.

Confusion Surrounding the Compact Rollout

The rollout of the compact has only deepened the confusion. Invitations were sent late at night with minimal explanation. The document outlined principles like protecting conservative ideas but framed them as a binding contract with severe repercussions. Adding to the confusion, Brown and Penn were invited despite having recently settled with the administration just months prior.