President Donald Trump has dismissed reports claiming his administration’s crackdown on Harvard University is rooted in personal resentment over an alleged rejection from the school. In a firm denial, Trump called the story “totally false” and clarified that he never applied to Harvard, highlighting instead his graduation from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
The controversy began when speculation surfaced during a podcast appearance by journalist Michael Wolff, who suggested that Trump’s sharp stance toward Harvard could be motivated by a past personal snub. Trump responded by labeling the reporter “third-rate” and claimed the accusations were simply attempts to stir attention and promote a failing book.
Trump’s administration has recently taken aggressive action against the university, including halting over $3 billion in federal grants and seeking to restrict Harvard’s ability to accept international students. Officials have linked these moves to concerns over campus safety and a perceived failure to address rising antisemitism.
Adding to the conversation, First Lady Melania Trump confirmed that their son, Barron, had not applied to Harvard, dispelling additional rumors tied to the family. Barron is currently attending NYU, where he recently completed his freshman year.
The pushback marks another heated chapter in the ongoing clash between the Trump administration and top academic institutions, with the president maintaining that his actions are policy-driven, not personal.