On Memorial Day, former President Donald Trump announced a bold proposal to strip Harvard University of $3 billion in federal grant funding and redirect the money to trade schools across the country. The announcement was made through a series of posts on TRUTH Social, drawing renewed attention to the ongoing debate over federal support for elite universities and workforce development programs.
Trump’s message sharply criticized Harvard, accusing the Ivy League institution of failing to cooperate with federal transparency standards—specifically regarding the enrollment and tracking of foreign students. According to the former president, the university has delayed submitting information requested by the government about its international student population.
“We are still waiting for the Foreign Student Lists from Harvard so that we can determine, after a ridiculous expenditure of BILLIONS OF DOLLARS, how many radicalized lunatics, troublemakers all, should not be let back into our Country,” Trump wrote in one of the posts. “Harvard is very slow in the presentation of these documents, and probably for good reason.”
In a follow-up message, Trump expanded on the idea of funding reallocation, saying he is seriously considering redirecting the grant money to American trade schools—institutions he described as critical to rebuilding the U.S. workforce in skilled professions such as construction, electrical work, and manufacturing.
“I am considering taking Three Billion Dollars of Grant Money away from a very antisemitic Harvard, and giving it to TRADE SCHOOLS all across our land,” he posted. “What a great investment that would be for the USA, and so badly needed!!!”
The proposal underscores a broader policy direction favored by Trump and his allies—one that prioritizes practical, skills-based education over traditional academic pathways at elite institutions. Supporters argue that with ongoing labor shortages in trades and industrial sectors, investing in vocational education could address key economic gaps and provide upward mobility for young Americans.
While no formal plan or timeline has yet been announced, sources within the Department of Education confirmed that internal discussions are underway to explore how such a shift in funding might be structured. Some trade-focused colleges and technical programs have already begun submitting proposals for potential inclusion in any new grant initiative, according to officials familiar with the matter.
Trump’s remarks also reflect his continuing criticism of elite academic institutions, which he has repeatedly accused of harboring political bias and failing to be transparent with federal authorities. The issue has gained momentum in conservative circles, especially following recent campus protests and increased scrutiny of foreign influence in higher education.
The focus on foreign student programs comes amid growing concerns in Washington about national security and campus unrest. Trump has suggested that universities that fail to comply with transparency requests may be subject to additional reviews of their federal funding eligibility.
As of Tuesday morning, Harvard University has not issued a public response to Trump’s statements.
