Harvard News

The university is facing cuts of more than $2.6 billion in federal funding and has already taken other steps to save money.

Kseniia Petrova, a Harvard researcher, was detained Feb. 16 at Logan Airport after failing to declare scientific samples she carried into the U.S.

The university expanded its ongoing suit after the Trump administration said it would stop issuing grants to the school and promised to take another $450 million.

The latest broadside from the federal government comes as Harvard faces multiple investigations from across the Trump administration.

In a letter, Harvard’s president pointed to areas of agreement with the Trump administration, including a need for more “intellectual diversity.” He also argued Harvard is not partisan.

Harvard could choose to either keep fighting or seek a deal with the administration. Its leaders are starting to realize that any path will very likely change the identity of the school.

A letter from Linda McMahon, the education secretary, said university leaders must demonstrate more responsible management before receiving additional federal grants.

President Trump on Friday said he would be “taking away” the university’s status, renewing a threat he made last month. It was not immediately clear if the I.R.S. was moving forward with a change.

The administration has accused the university of lacking viewpoint diversity. Harvard is fighting its demands, but embracing the vague term.

Alan Garber became a hero to liberals after Harvard resisted the federal government. At the same time, he is trying to remake campus culture in ways the Trump administration might appreciate.