Trump Administration Pressures Columbia University With $400M Funding Threat

Federal officials demand sweeping policy changes, citing concerns over antisemitism and campus governance.

The Trump administration has cut $400 million in federal funding to Columbia University, citing alleged inaction against antisemitism and violations of civil rights laws.
A letter from federal agencies outlines nine required actions as preconditions for restoring funding, including banning identity-concealing masks and adopting a new definition of antisemitism.
The administration demands Columbia place its Middle Eastern, South Asian, and African Studies Department under academic receivership for five years.
Other required changes include centralizing disciplinary authority under the university president, empowering campus police, and reforming admissions practices.
Columbia University has stated it is reviewing the letter and remains committed to addressing discrimination and supporting its students.