A federal judge has ruled that the Trump administration illegally froze nearly $3 billion in federal grants to Harvard University. Judge Allison D. Burroughs stated that the administration's demands were unconstitutional and violated Harvard's First Amendment rights. The ruling also prevents the administration from issuing further retaliatory freeze orders. Harvard argued that the funding freeze was in response to its refusal to implement reforms, such as ending diversity programs and increasing efforts against antisemitism. The White House has vowed to appeal the decision, asserting Harvard has no constitutional right to taxpayer funds. An Education Department spokesperson found the ruling unsurprising. The judge noted that Harvard is taking steps to combat antisemitism and that courts must safeguard academic freedom. The administration's demands included ideological and pedagogical concerns beyond just antisemitism. Harvard has been a focal point in the administration's efforts to influence curriculum at elite institutions. This ruling follows a previous one where the administration could not bar international students from Harvard.