Secretary of Education Linda McMahon has raised questions about Harvard President Alan Gerber’s decision to reduce his salary by 25%. She expressed skepticism regarding how this pay cut demonstrates a shift in the university’s policies related to anti-Semitism or racism. A spokesperson for Harvard indicated that Gerber agreed to the pay reduction, effective from 2025-26, following a significant funding cut of $2.2 billion from the Trump administration.
During an appearance on Fox Business’ “The Evening Edit” Thursday, McMahon discussed the circumstances surrounding elite Ivy League institutions and wage cuts imposed at Harvard. She stated, “I don’t think a salary reduction demonstrates a commitment to changing policies on anti-Semitism and racism.” She pointed out that, according to Harvard Crimson’s research, only about 2% to 3% of its faculty identify as conservative.
On Tuesday, Harvard updated its lawsuit against the Trump administration after an additional $450 million in funding was revoked. Massachusetts schools subsequently announced that a federal task force had amended the lawsuit to address anti-Semitism. This created a situation where eight federal agencies discontinued approximately $450 million in grants, which Harvard described as related to “radical” and “dark issues” present on campus.
McMahon pointedly remarked that Harvard has consistently struggled to tackle the issues of racism and anti-Semitic harassment on its campus. The latest funding freeze compounds the previously withheld $2.2 billion that the Trump administration imposed, aiming to challenge Harvard’s tax-exempt status.
Harvard’s initial legal action was filed in April, seeking to prevent the denial of its funds. They noted that much of the initially frozen amount has since been unblocked, although there are still disputes about recovery. While discussing the situation, McMahon shared that there were attempts to communicate directly with Gerber, which ultimately led to the university filing a lawsuit instead.
McMahon acknowledged some of Harvard’s efforts to implement changes, like the resignation of the chair for Middle Eastern studies, but emphasized that the Trump administration continues to hold its position firmly. “It’s evident that anti-Semitism on campus amounts to a civil rights violation,” she asserted, highlighting the fear among Jewish students about attending campus events, which raises genuine concerns over their safety.
With Harvard facing pressure amid a broader crackdown by the Trump administration on universities dealing with anti-Israel sentiments, the tension appears to be escalating. The administration has issued warnings about withdrawing federal funds unless Harvard makes significant reforms in governance, leadership, and its admission practices by August 2025. Gerber responded that the government overstepped by trying to dictate what private universities are permitted to teach or pursue.
