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Newsom Demands Harvard President Resign Over Trump Deal

8/15/2025

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Summary

Story summary

California Governor Gavin Newsom urged Harvard President Alan M. Garber to resign due to potential negotiations with the Trump administration.
Harvard is contemplating a $500 million settlement to regain federal research funding, facing backlash from faculty and alumni.
Critics caution that such a deal may establish a troubling precedent for other universities.

History

Historical Context

The Bayh-Dole Act of 1980 transformed university research funding by allowing institutions to retain ownership of federally funded inventions. This shift has led to ongoing tensions, exemplified by Harvard University's current legal challenges and Governor Gavin Newsom's call for President Alan M. Garber's resignation, highlighting the struggle between federal influence and academic autonomy in higher education.

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Story summary

California Governor Gavin Newsom urged Harvard President Alan M. Garber to resign due to potential negotiations with the Trump administration.
Harvard is contemplating a $500 million settlement to regain federal research funding, facing backlash from faculty and alumni.
Critics caution that such a deal may establish a troubling precedent for other universities.

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