Trump admin subpoenas Harvard University over foreign student information

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) under President Donald Trump has taken drastic actions against Harvard University, sending administrative subpoenas in an effort to obtain information related to the criminality and misconduct of foreign students on the campus. This move comes after Harvard’s refusal to cooperate with past information requests regarding the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), which provides visas for non-citizens studying in the US.

Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin expressed frustration with Harvard’s lack of cooperation, stating that the university has allowed foreign students to abuse their visa privileges and advocate for violence and terrorism on campus. The agency has accused Harvard, along with other universities, of neglecting to defend the interests of its students in the face of such misconduct.

The subpoenas issued to Harvard mark the latest development in the ongoing conflict between the Trump Administration and the prestigious university. The SEVP has become a point of contention following anti-Semitic protests on campus amid Israeli-Palestinian conflicts, which prompted a public apology from Harvard president Alan Garber.

Sources within DHS have revealed that the subpoenas were issued as a last resort after Harvard repeatedly refused non-coercive requests for information. The department has been seeking records and documents related to immigration laws and crimes dating back to January 1, 2020.

Refusing to comply with an administrative subpoena carries severe consequences, including civil penalties, criminal charges, contempt of court, and potential audits and inspections. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem had previously warned Harvard that noncompliance would result in revoking the SEVP, a threat that was carried out in late May, impacting a significant portion of Harvard’s student body.

Harvard responded to the cancellation of the SEVP with a lawsuit, alleging that the Trump administration’s decision was unconstitutional and retaliatory. The university argued that the government’s actions were an attempt to control Harvard’s governance, curriculum, and ideological stance.

Despite Harvard’s legal efforts, a temporary restraining order granted by U.S. District Judge Allison D. Burroughs has allowed the university to continue issuing visa documents and enrolling students through the SEVP. The ongoing legal battle between Harvard and DHS highlights the contentious relationship between academia and government oversight.

Fox News Digital reached out to Harvard University for comment but has not received a response. The clash between Harvard and DHS serves as a reminder of the complex issues surrounding immigration, national security, and academic freedom in the United States.