Newsom’s Stance on UCLA Settlements

California Governor Gavin Newsom recently agreed to a substantial settlement but criticized the Trump administration for what he termed “selling souls” at institutions like Columbia and Brown.

The Trump administration has reportedly cut or frozen federal research grants for several universities, claiming these institutions haven’t adequately addressed anti-Semitism or have promoted controversial “awakening” policies. While some universities are settling to reopen access to funds and avoid further investigations, Newsom has asserted that the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) will not be among them.

“UCLA is not going to sell the souls of Harvard, Brown, Penn, or Columbia,” Newsom stated on “Pod Save America.” He emphasized the university’s commitment to fighting for democracy, regardless of political affiliation. “I love Republicans. I love Democrats. I love this country and democracy,” he added, though his frustration with the situation was palpable.

Newsom also reached out to Harvard regarding rumors of a possible $500 million settlement for the return of over $2.6 billion in federal funding. “We will never sell our souls to Donald Trump. Harvard, I hope you’re listening. If you can’t stand on your principles, what is the point of your donation?” he remarked.

In a recent address in San Francisco, he reiterated that under his leadership, UCLA would resist any settlements. “We’re not going to be like those other institutions. If we act like that, I’m not going to be governor,” he declared, showcasing his strong resolve.

The Trump administration is pushing for a $1 billion settlement from UCLA, fueled by allegations of a Title VII violation under the Civil Rights Act. UCLA has already settled previous lawsuits for $6 million related to how it handled anti-Israel protests on campus, including accusations of allowing exclusion zones for Jewish students.