Education Secretary Linda McMahon has issued a stern warning to Harvard University, stating she is prepared to take significant action, including potentially withholding federal funding, if the institution does not address diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives that may violate federal law. McMahon made these remarks in a recent episode of "Pod Force One," emphasizing the federal government's intent to ensure universities operate within legal boundaries.
"Having always the hammer, if you will, of investigation, of losing federal funding for research and programs, as well as having lawsuits potentially brought by the Department of Justice are certainly things that they bear in mind as well," McMahon told The Post's Miranda Devine on the podcast. She added that while the government does not aim to halt crucial research, universities must adhere to the law.
The Trump administration has previously focused on curbing perceived liberal influence in higher education, with Harvard being a focal point. In May 2025, Health and Human Services officials attempted to revoke $2.2 billion in federal grants from Harvard, alleging non-compliance with federal non-discrimination laws. This action led to a legal battle, and a judge later ordered the funding restored in September 2025, an order the administration appealed.
McMahon suggested that some institutions might be attempting to pass DEI programs with superficial changes. "I would bet that there are many who have just changed the name and maybe given it enough window dressing that it’s passed muster for the time being," she stated. She expressed hope that universities would shift focus to civics and history education, rather than ideology.
Other institutions have responded to federal pressure. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) reportedly closed its DEI offices to demonstrate a commitment to merit-based programs. The administration had also previously hoped Harvard would reach an agreement similar to Columbia University, which settled for $220 million and revised policies that allegedly violated Jewish students' civil rights, among other discriminatory practices.
McMahon, who previously served as head of the Small Business Administration during President Trump's first term, drew parallels to her past in professional wrestling. "I’ve actually not been turned upside down and made to look as though I landed on my head yet, but there is a lot of to-ing and fro-ing, that is for sure," she said, referencing a past on-screen incident where she received a "tombstone piledriver." Conservative legal groups have also filed complaints alleging that Harvard continues to operate DEI programs funded by taxpayer money, amounting to tens of millions of dollars.