Trump's University Power Play: A Dangerous Game

Jerry Nadler, a long-serving Jewish congressman, has accused Donald Trump of using antisemitism as a cover to control top universities. He believes Trump is exploiting genuine concerns about Jewish safety to push his agenda. This is part of a broader attack on academic freedom, with Trump's administration targeting prestigious schools like Columbia, Harvard, and Princeton. Trump's administration has suspended millions in research grants and threatened to cut federal funds. Princeton lost $210 million, and Harvard faces a review of $9 billion in contracts and grants. Brown University is also under threat, with $500 million at risk. This is not just about money; it's about control. Trump wants to dictate what happens on campuses, and that's a problem. Nadler warns that if Trump succeeds, it will harm everyone, especially Jews. History shows that when freedom is restricted, Jews often suffer. Trump's actions could make life harder for American Jews, giving antisemites an excuse to act. Nadler also points out that Trump has appointed known antisemites to high positions, like Kingsley Wilson, a Pentagon spokesperson who has spread hateful lies. Nadler is not just talking; he's taking action. He has criticized Trump's attacks on universities and warned his fellow Jews not to fall for Trump's tricks. He has also stood up for free speech, even when he disagrees with the message. For example, he defended a pro-Palestinian protester who was threatened with deportation. Nadler believes in the power of free speech and the importance of standing up for it. Nadler has also been critical of the IHRA definition of antisemitism, which he believes is used to silence criticism of Israel. He has changed his mind about this issue, admitting he was wrong to support it in the past. He urges his colleagues to stand up for academic freedom and against Trump's bullying tactics. He praises Princeton for resisting Trump's pressure and calls on other universities to do the same. Some universities have already given in to Trump's demands, like Columbia and Harvard. They have adopted the IHRA definition and made other concessions. But Nadler believes this is a mistake. He thinks universities should fight back, even if it means going to court. He is ready to support them in this fight, using his position in Congress to help.