Washington D.C. – Former U.S. President Donald Trump is seeking $1 billion in damages from Harvard University, escalating a legal dispute centered on allegations of antisemitism and a funding freeze. The move, announced on Monday, February 2, 2026, comes after reports that Harvard had secured concessions in ongoing negotiations with the U.S. Government, according to multiple news sources.
Trump stated via his social media platform, Truth Social, “We are now demanding One Billion Dollars in damages, and want no further dealings, ever, with Harvard University.” This declaration followed a report in the New York Times detailing Harvard’s apparent gains in settlement talks with the U.S. Government.
The legal action stems from accusations leveled by Trump’s administration against Harvard and other U.S. Universities, alleging the promotion of what they term a “woke” ideology and a failure to adequately protect Jewish students during pro-Palestinian demonstrations on campuses. The administration initiated legal proceedings against the prestigious institutions, demanding substantial financial compensation.
Critics have characterized the legal pursuit as a pressure campaign targeting liberal universities. The situation echoes a similar case involving Columbia University, which agreed to a $200 million settlement with the Trump administration last summer. As part of that agreement, Columbia pledged to adhere to rules prohibiting the consideration of race in student admissions and hiring practices.
However, the New York Times reported on Monday, February 2, 2026, that Trump had rescinded the government’s demand for a $200 million settlement from Harvard following protracted negotiations. Previously, in September of last year, Trump indicated to reporters that negotiations with Harvard were nearing a $500 million settlement, potentially including the establishment of vocational schools.
Trump elaborated on his Truth Social account, stating, “They wanted to implement a complicated vocational training concept, but it was rejected as inadequate and, in our opinion, would not work.” He further asserted that the proposed settlement was merely a tactic by Harvard to avoid a larger cash payment, claiming the actual damages should exceed $500 million given the “serious and heinous illegalities” allegedly committed by the university. He did not specify which laws Harvard is accused of violating.
The University of Pennsylvania, another Ivy League institution, also faced scrutiny from the Trump administration last year, ultimately leading to an announcement that it would prohibit transgender women from participating in women’s sports.
The dispute highlights a broader pattern of engagement between the Trump administration and higher education institutions. The administration has consistently challenged what it perceives as ideological biases within universities, particularly concerning issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion. The focus on campus antisemitism adds another layer to this complex dynamic, tapping into heightened sensitivities surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and freedom of speech on university campuses.
The demand for $1 billion from Harvard represents a significant escalation in this ongoing conflict. The outcome of this legal battle could have far-reaching implications for the relationship between the federal government and universities across the United States, potentially influencing campus policies and funding structures for years to come. It also raises questions about the extent to which the government can and should intervene in the internal affairs of private institutions of higher education.
The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected as the legal proceedings unfold. The Trump administration’s willingness to pursue such a substantial financial claim underscores the seriousness with which it views the allegations against Harvard and its determination to hold the university accountable.