Most Americans disapprove of Trumps treatment of colleges

Published: Friday, May 9, 2025 at 12:32 pm

Americans Disapprove of Trump's Handling of Colleges, New Poll Shows

A recent Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll reveals that a majority of Americans disapprove of President Donald Trump's approach to colleges and universities. The survey, conducted May 1-5 with 1,175 adults, found that 56% disapprove of Trump's handling of higher education issues, while approximately 40% approve. This disapproval aligns with his overall job approval ratings.

The poll highlights Trump's efforts to influence universities, particularly targeting institutions like Harvard University. His administration has frozen over $2.2 billion in federal grants, threatened to remove the school's tax-exempt status, and demanded policy changes. Similar actions have been taken against other elite colleges, including Columbia University, the University of Pennsylvania, and Cornell University, often citing concerns about pro-Palestinian activism and transgender athletes.

The poll reveals a disconnect between the Trump administration's actions and the public's perception of universities. A significant portion of Americans (60%) view colleges and universities as making a positive contribution to scientific research and innovation. However, the poll also shows a divide among Republicans regarding withholding federal funding from schools. While a majority of Republicans approve of Trump's approach, they are split on the use of funding cuts to enforce his agenda.

The cost of college tuition remains a primary concern for most Americans, regardless of political affiliation. About 60% of U.S. adults express significant concern about tuition costs, far outweighing concerns about issues like antisemitism or liberal bias on campuses. The poll also highlights a potential cultural divide between college-educated Americans and those without degrees, with differing views on withholding funding from universities.

BNN's Perspective: This poll underscores the complex and often divisive nature of the debate surrounding higher education in America. While concerns about free speech and campus climate are valid, the focus on funding cuts and political agendas risks undermining the crucial role universities play in scientific advancement and intellectual discourse. Finding a balance that respects both academic freedom and public concerns is essential for the future of higher education.

Keywords: Donald Trump, colleges, universities, higher education, federal funding, Harvard University, tuition costs, antisemitism, liberal bias, campus, poll, public opinion, Republican, Democrat, free speech, education policy, DEI programs, pro-Palestinian activism, transgender athletes, academic freedom, scientific research, innovation.

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