Columbia to Pay $220 Million, Harvard Eyes $500 Million, Brown $50 Million in Trump Administration Antisemitism Settlements

Columbia University has agreed to pay fines exceeding $220 million and accepted extensive concessions related to admissions, academics, and hiring practices as part of a settlement with the Trump administration addressing allegations of antisemitism on campus. This agreement has sparked mixed reactions within and outside the university. Harvard University is reportedly prepared to spend up to $500 million to settle similar allegations under the Trump administration, more than double Columbia's fine. Brown University has reached a separate $50 million deal with the Trump administration to restore its research funding and resolve discrimination complaints. Columbia's settlement also includes new requirements that could impact its relationship with foreign students, a key source of talent and revenue. Meanwhile, Harvard faces growing pressure from Democratic lawmakers, faculty, and alumni to reject a comparable White House settlement. Some opinion pieces argue that the settlements at UCLA and Columbia protect civil rights rather than stifle free speech.