Trump Administration Moves to Sever All Federal Contracts with Harvard University

The Trump administration has announced a sweeping move to terminate all remaining federal contracts with Harvard University, a decision affecting approximately $100 million in agreements and escalating the administration's ongoing campaign against the Ivy League institution.

Federal Directive and Scope

On Tuesday, a letter from the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) was sent to federal agencies, instructing them to identify and cancel any active contracts with Harvard. Agencies are required to submit a list of terminated contracts by June 6 and are advised to seek alternative vendors for future services previously provided by Harvard. Essential services will not be immediately discontinued but will be transitioned to other suppliers.

The action impacts about 30 contracts across nine federal agencies, spanning areas such as scientific research and executive training. This follows a series of previous funding cuts, with over $3 billion in grants and contracts already frozen by the administration since last month.

Background and Motivations

The administration's move comes after a series of controversies at Harvard, including the revocation of tenure for a business school professor accused of data fraud and allegations of illegal organ sales at Harvard Medical School’s morgue. The White House has also cited concerns over campus antisemitism, racial discrimination in admissions, and what it describes as biased hiring practices and a lack of protection for Jewish students.

President Trump has publicly criticized Harvard as a "hotbed of liberalism and antisemitism," and the administration has sought to restrict the university’s ability to enroll international students and has threatened its tax-exempt status. Harvard has pushed back, filing a lawsuit against federal efforts to alter its leadership, governance, and admissions policies, arguing that such actions infringe on its independence and constitutional rights.

Impact on Harvard and International Students

The cancellation of these contracts is expected to have significant financial and operational consequences for Harvard, which relies on federal funding for research and educational programs. The university has emphasized the critical role of its international students, warning that related policy changes—such as a proposed ban on foreign student enrollment—could have a "devastating impact" on more than 7,000 visa holders.

Harvard President Alan Garber reaffirmed the university’s commitment to its principles, stating that Harvard "will not relinquish its independence or constitutional rights".

Political and Educational Ramifications

This unprecedented step marks a complete dissolution of the long-standing business relationship between the federal government and one of the nation’s most prestigious universities. The move has sparked intense debate in academic and political circles, with critics arguing it threatens the financial stability and international standing of U.S. higher education, while supporters claim it holds elite institutions accountable for their policies.

As of Tuesday afternoon, Harvard had not issued an official response to the latest round of contract terminations.