In a dramatic escalation of his administration's battle with elite academic institutions, President Donald Trump announced on May 2, 2025, his intention to revoke Harvard University's tax-exempt status. This move, shared via his social media platform, marks a significant intensification of his ongoing campaign against what he perceives as liberal strongholds within higher education.

Harvard swiftly responded, labeling the proposed action as "unlawful and unprecedented." The university warned that such a measure would jeopardize its ability to provide financial aid, conduct critical medical research, and drive technological innovation.

Legal experts highlight that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), not the President, holds the authority to determine an organization's tax-exempt status. Federal law prohibits the President from directing the IRS to investigate or audit specific entities.

This announcement follows a series of confrontations between the Trump administration and Harvard. The administration has previously frozen $2.3 billion in federal funding to the university, citing concerns over antisemitism and the management of pro-Palestinian protests. Additionally, investigations into alleged race-based discrimination and demands to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs have further strained relations.

Harvard has taken legal action against the administration, asserting that these measures infringe upon its First Amendment rights and threaten academic freedom. The university's stance has garnered support from over 100 academic leaders nationwide, who collectively denounce the administration's interventions as unprecedented government overreach.

As this conflict unfolds, the broader implications for higher education in the United States remain uncertain. The potential revocation of Harvard's tax-exempt status could set a precedent affecting numerous institutions, raising concerns about the politicization of education and the autonomy of academic entities.