Trump administration reviewing Columbia University contracts, grants over antisemitism allegations

The Trump administration announced on Monday it is reviewing contracts and grants associated with Columbia University over antisemitism allegations against the Ivy League school.

The Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Education and the General Services Administration said in a joint statement the review is happening due to the school’s “ongoing inaction in the face of relentless harassment of Jewish students.” 

As part of the federal government’s Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism, which was created by one of President Trump’s executive orders, the agency will be considering cancelation or stop work orders for $51.4 million in contracts for the university.  

The group will also look over some $5 billion in federal grant commitments “to ensure the university is in compliance with federal regulations, including its civil rights responsibilities.” 

The announcement comes shortly after Barnard College, an affiliate of Columbia, saw pro-Palestinian protesters hospitalize an employee as part of their efforts to get into an academic building.  

Last spring, Columbia students were among the most prominent participants in the nationwide pro-Palestinian protesters that saw encampments on dozens of campuses across the country and more than 2,000 arrested. 

“Americans have watched in horror for more than a year now, as Jewish students have been assaulted and harassed on elite university campuses — repeatedly overrun by anti-Semitic students and agitators. Unlawful encampments and demonstrations have completely paralyzed day-to-day campus operations, depriving Jewish students of learning opportunities to which they are entitled,” said Linda McMahon, Trump's new secretary of the Department of Education. 

“Institutions that receive federal funds have a responsibility to protect all students from discrimination. Columbia’s apparent failure to uphold their end of this basic agreement raises very serious questions about the institution’s fitness to continue doing business with the United States government,” she added.  

The Hill has reached out to Columbia for comment.