Newsom Forcing Universities To Side With Him Or Trump — Schools Could Lose Funds Either Way

Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom issued an ultimatum on Thursday to universities in the state, warning them that entering an agreement with the Trump administration will put them directly at odds with the governor.

After the White House proposed a deal to nine universities promising that compliance with the administration’s agenda could grant them priority treatment in funding decisions, Newsom issued a harsh warning to any “sell-out universities” that might accept it.

The offer in Trump’s “Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education” asks schools to stop racially discriminating in admissions and hiring decisions and commit to institutional neutrality and upholding free speech. Newsom said and school that complies with the federal government will “lose billions in state funding” instead.

“If any California University signs this radical agreement, they’ll lose billions in state funding — including Cal Grants — instantly,” Newsom said in a press release. “California will not bankroll schools that sell out their students, professors, researchers, and surrender academic freedom.”

The University of Southern California is the only California institution that was offered the proposal on Wednesday, but more universities may be offered the terms in the future.