The Trump administration has intensified its pressure on American universities, exemplified by a recent $400 million cut in federal contracts to Columbia University unless it complies with demands such as stricter student discipline and reconsideration of admissions policies. This situation is perceived as a critical test for academic freedom. Despite the potential legal overreach described by critics, including former Columbia president Lee Bollinger, many universities are hesitant to push back, observing how Columbia's actions may affect their own academic autonomy and operational integrity.
“Many of the demands that the Trump administration is making are not lawful,” Jameel Jaffer noted, stressing that Columbia's compliance might set a troubling precedent for higher education.
Lee Bollinger, former president of Columbia, characterized the administration's actions as ‘an authoritarian takeover’ which poses a threat to academic freedom and institutional integrity.
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