Federal Funding Controversy at Universities
The Trump administration has suspended $30 million in USDA funding to the University of Maine System shortly after President Trump clashed with Governor Mills over transgender rights policies. Officials cite vague Title VI/IX violations, though no specific complaints were identified. This follows Columbia University losing $400 million in federal grants after pro-Palestinian demonstrations, with protest leader Mahmoud Khalil now facing deportation despite his legal status. Critics condemn these actions as political retaliation, arguing that federal agencies are being weaponized to force universities into compliance with administration policies, threatening academic independence and research funding nationwide.
