The Trump administration, under President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, launched a new investigation into Harvard University's exchange visitor program on Wednesday. The investigation, announced in a statement by Rubio, aims to ensure the program upholds national security and complies with US law. The program, which uses J-1 visas, allows foreign scholars to participate in cultural and academic exchange programs at Harvard. Rubio stated that Harvard's continued eligibility as a sponsor of the program is contingent upon the investigation's findings, suggesting potential consequences for the university if deemed non-compliant.

The investigation follows a pattern of actions by the Trump administration against Harvard, citing national security concerns and foreign policy objectives. This includes past attempts to expel foreign students involved in pro-Palestinian and anti-war movements, leveraging the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952. Previous disputes involved the stripping of federal funding from Harvard and other universities due to alleged lack of "viewpoint diversity" and other policy disagreements. Legal challenges to these actions are ongoing.

Impact Statement: The investigation could significantly impact Harvard's ability to host international scholars and researchers, potentially affecting its academic reputation and international collaborations. The ongoing legal battles between Harvard and the Trump administration highlight broader concerns about academic freedom and the government's role in university affairs.