The Trump administration has taken bold steps against Columbia University, slashing tens of millions in federal funding while reviewing billions more. Could this signal a new approach to holding elite institutions accountable?
At a glance:
• Trump administration cut $30 million in Health and Human Services grants to Columbia University
• This follows earlier cancellation of $400 million in federal grants and contracts
• Administration reviewing Columbia’s entire $5 billion in federal funding
• Jeanine D’Armiento, University Senate Executive Committee Chairwoman, lost $2 million in research grants
• Senator Marco Rubio criticized Columbia for alleged terrorism links
Trump Administration Targets Columbia’s Federal Funding
The Trump administration has cut an additional $30 million in grants to Columbia University from the Department of Health and Human Services. The cuts are part of a broader effort to hold the Ivy League institution accountable amid growing concerns about how taxpayer dollars are used.
Jeanine D’Armiento, Chairwoman of the University Senate Executive Committee, was particularly affected by these cuts, losing $2 million in grants that had supported her research work. The funding reduction is a significant blow to Columbia’s research projects and sends a strong message about the Trump administration’s willingness to use financial leverage against difficult institutions.
Broader Review of Columbia’s Federal Support
These funds withdrawal could signal the beginning of a comprehensive reassessment of federal support for the university. Senator Marco Rubio has raised serious concerns about Columbia, specifically its alleged links to terrorism. His criticisms suggest that national security concerns may be factored into decisions about federal funding for educational institutions.
Contrasting Approaches to Educational Policy
Unlike Republicans, who stress security, Democratic-led states have implemented policies that prioritize Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in government contracting decisions. In Illinois, Governor Pritzker’s “DEI Factor” has resulted in 44 percent of state contracts being awarded based on DEI scores rather than technical competency or pricing considerations in fiscal year 2024.
The American public appears to be taking notice of these differences, with a recent NBC News poll showing the Democratic Party’s popularity at an all-time low, with only 27% of registered voters viewing it positively.
