Overview
- President Trump stated his intent to strip Harvard University of its tax-exempt status, claiming the institution is not acting in the public interest.
- Federal law prohibits the president from directing the IRS to revoke tax-exempt status, raising questions about the legality of Trump’s announcement.
- Harvard has warned that losing tax-exempt status would jeopardize its educational mission, including financial aid, research programs, and donor support.
- Legal experts and commentators have criticized Trump’s plan as unlawful and a threat to academic freedom and nonprofit governance.
- Harvard faculty have pledged 10% of their earnings to support the university’s legal fight, while congressional Democrats call for an investigation into potential IRS pressure.