SACRAMENTO, CA – August 12, 2025 – California Governor Gavin Newsom sharply criticized Harvard University on August 12 for nearing a settlement with the Trump administration, labeling it a “surrender” and demanding the resignation of Harvard President Alan Garber in a fiery post on X that quickly drew polarized reactions.
In his post, Newsom stated: “You don’t work with Donald Trump — only FOR Donald Trump. Looks like Harvard has chosen to surrender. Alan Garber must resign. An absolute failure of leadership that will have demonstrable impacts to higher education across our country. He should be ashamed. CALIFORNIA WILL NEVER BEND THE KNEE.”
The statement quoted a New York Times report on the negotiations, emphasizing Newsom’s view that the deal represents capitulation to federal pressure.
The dispute stems from the Trump administration’s decision to freeze billions in federal research funding to Harvard earlier this year, citing concerns over antisemitism, curriculum content, and other issues.
Harvard sued in April, arguing the actions violated its constitutional rights.
Under the emerging framework, Harvard would commit to spending $500 million on vocational and educational programs over several years, enhance efforts to combat antisemitism, and provide detailed admissions data including race and gender.
In exchange, the administration would restore funding, halt investigations by the Justice and Commerce Departments, and cease efforts to restrict international student enrollment.
The deal, which avoids appointing a federal monitor, still requires approval from President Trump and senior Harvard officials.
This would mark the largest such payout yet, surpassing Columbia University’s $221 million agreement and Brown’s $50 million deal, amid a broader administration campaign targeting elite universities.
Critics, including Democratic lawmakers, have warned that settling could invite congressional investigations, viewing it as capitulation.
Harvard faculty, such as Nobel laureate Oliver Hart, have expressed concerns over long-term government interference, advocating for robust dispute resolution mechanisms.
Supporters of the administration’s approach argue it holds universities accountable, with one analyst noting it deconstructs “Democrat scams” in higher education.
Harvard’s endowment, at $53 billion, could absorb the cost, but the funding freeze has strained operations, potentially creating a $1 billion annual budget shortfall.
Newsom’s post ignited swift backlash on X, with many users turning his words against him. One reply stated, “So failure leads to resignation? When should we expect yours Gavin?”
Another mocked, “You don’t work. That’s the post.”
Critics accused Newsom of hypocrisy, citing California’s challenges, while one user quipped, “Keep losing idiot.”
Supporters echoed his defiance, with broader discussions framing the settlements as threats to academic freedom.
Harvard declined to comment on the negotiations, and Garber has previously stated no deal is imminent.
White House adviser May Mailman highlighted the admissions data as a key factor.
Analysts suggest the outcome could influence how other institutions navigate federal demands, potentially reshaping U.S. higher education amid ongoing debates over free speech, diversity, and funding.
Further developments are anticipated as negotiations continue.