California Governor Newsom’s Reactions to Trump’s Education Agenda

California’s Governor, Gavin Newsom, has issued a strong warning regarding the potential withholding of billions in state funds for universities that agree to support President Donald Trump’s education initiatives. The agreement, referred to as the “Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education,” outlines various regulations related to admissions, employment, freedom of speech on campuses, and the allocation of funds.

Newsom has labeled this compact as a “radical agreement,” asserting that state funding will be curtailed if any university chooses to participate. He stated, “If the University of California signs this radical agreement, they will immediately lose California funds. California will not bankroll schools that sell out students, professors, researchers, and academic freedom.”

Interestingly, nine universities across the country are considering this compact, with the University of Southern California (USC) being the only one located in California. USC, a private institution, receives CAL grants from the state, which aid students who do not need to repay them. Reports indicate that USC received approximately $28.4 million in CAL grant funds over the past year, while the independent AICCU received a total of $227.6 million during the same period.

In response to Newsom’s stance, White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson accused him of opposing free speech protections. She remarked, “Gavin Newsom needs to focus on the issues he has created in his own state.” Jackson pointed out that opposing the compact is in direct contradiction to efforts aimed at controlling skyrocketing tuition and promoting free speech. She emphasized that the Trump administration is committed to reforming higher education and encouraging institutions to adopt policies centered around academic excellence.