Trump officials intensify Columbia dispute with accreditation threat
GuardianMAY 30
Trump Administration Threatens Columbia's Accreditation
Above: Students gather for the Columbia University commencement ceremony in New York on May 21, 2025. Image copyright: Jeenah Moon/Pool/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Republican narrative
The Trump administration is losing patience with Columbia and this is the best way for the government to once again insist the school reform its policies. The school's leadership previously showed deliberate indifference to antisemitic incidents on campus, violating federal civil rights laws. Although Columbia is unlikely to lose its accreditation, this will make it defend itself — and send a message to similar schools nationwide.
Democratic narrative
The Trump administration is again weaponizing antisemitism concerns to suppress legitimate criticism of Israeli policies. Columbia has already implemented policy changes and cooperated with federal demands, yet it faces continued harassment. This is government overreach targeting academic freedom and student expression, in much the same way the administration's detainment of several vocal students is violating their First Amendment rights.