Trump blasts judge in Harvard funding case before she issues ruling
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
Photo: Joseph Prezioso/AFP via Getty Images
President Trump blasted a Boston federal judge overseeing Harvard University's lawsuit against his administration, vowing to appeal if she rules against the federal government.
Why it matters: Trump's post on TruthSocial is the latest example of the president calling out an individual judge, a practice that critics say raises concerns about the separation of the executive and judicial branches under the Constitution.
Catch up quick: Attorneys representing Harvard and the feds argued in court Monday over the Trump administration's decision to rescind more than $2.6 billion in federal funding.
- Harvard attorney Steve Lehotsky argued that the federal government was trying to control the "inner workings" of the Ivy League school, per the BBC.
- Michael Velchik, a Trump attorney, said Harvard had violated the president's executive order to combat antisemitism.
State of play: District Judge Allison Burroughs didn't issue a ruling at Monday's hearing from the bench, but that didn't stop Trump from calling her a "TOTAL DISASTER."
- He noted she has ruled in favor of Harvard in the past, including when she temporarily blocked the administration's efforts in a separate lawsuit to stop Harvard from hosting international students.
What they're saying: "When she rules against us, we will IMMEDIATELY appeal, and WIN," Trump wrote in a Truth Social post.
- "Also, the Government will stop the practice of giving many Billions of Dollars to Harvard, much of which had been given without explanation," he added.
Burroughs worked as a federal lawyer for 16 years, followed by a decade in private practice, before former President Barack Obama tapped her to become a Boston federal court judge.
- Burroughs has overseen thousands of cases since, including federal lawsuits during both Trump terms.
What we're watching: Burroughs said the government so far hasn't shown any documents or proof that Harvard officials "have taken enough steps or haven't" to address antisemitism, the BBC reported.
- She's expected to issue a ruling later in writing.