Boston, MA – U.S. District Judge Allison D. Burroughs is expected to issue a ruling soon in Harvard University's lawsuit challenging the Trump administration's decision to freeze billions of dollars in federal funding. The dispute centers on approximately $2 to $3 billion in federal research grants, with Harvard accusing the government of unconstitutional retaliation.
The Trump administration initiated the funding freeze, asserting that Harvard failed to adequately address antisemitism on its campus, citing alleged violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. Harvard, however, contends that the administration's actions constitute an illegal attempt to leverage federal funds to control academic decision-making and infringe upon the university's First Amendment rights.
During oral arguments in July, Judge Burroughs expressed significant skepticism regarding the government's rationale. She questioned the direct link between combating antisemitism and withholding research funds, reportedly describing the administration's arguments as "mind-boggling" and "antithetical to those interests."
This case marks another instance of Judge Burroughs overseeing a high-profile legal battle involving Harvard and the Trump administration. She previously ruled to temporarily block the Department of Energy from cutting over $400 million in federal funding to universities and also halted an administration policy that would have required international students to leave the U.S. if their courses were entirely online.
Judge Burroughs also has a notable history with Harvard's admissions policies. In 2019, she famously ruled that Harvard's use of racial preferences in admissions was not illegal, finding no evidence of intentional discrimination. However, the U.S. Supreme Court later overturned her decision in June 2023, in a 6-3 ruling, effectively ending race-conscious affirmative action in college admissions nationwide.
Former President Donald Trump has publicly criticized Judge Burroughs on social media, labeling her a "Trump-hating Judge" and a "TOTAL DISASTER." He has stated that he expects her to rule against his administration but vowed an immediate appeal. The upcoming ruling carries significant implications for Harvard's research enterprise and could set a precedent for federal government oversight of universities.