Summary
Trump is trying to force colleges like USC to push his political agenda in exchange for federal money, but Governor Gavin Newsom is standing firm against this petty power grab. This is another example of Trump weaponizing Washington against states and citizens who pay their taxes.
By Ricky Dana, Candidate for U.S. House – Missouri’s 4th District
Touché: Newsom Exposes Trump’s Petty Political Power Grab Against Colleges
Trump political power grab against colleges — that phrase now defines the White House’s latest scheme. Reports confirm the administration is pressuring universities like USC to adopt partisan policy positions in exchange for favorable federal funding. That’s not leadership. That’s political blackmail — and it uses our tax dollars. 🎓💵
🔥 Trump Political Power Grab Against Colleges Explained
The proposal is a 10-point “compact” that demands colleges cap international student enrollment, reinstate standardized tests, impose ideological rules on hiring and speech, and even freeze tuition. In exchange, those who comply get “priority” in federal research grants. If they don’t? They risk losing access to funding streams that power labs, scholarships, and discoveries. This is exactly why many call it a Trump political power grab against colleges. 🛑
✅ Newsom’s pushback
California Governor Gavin Newsom wasted no time. He warned that any state institution that signs such a deal could lose access to California funds, including Cal Grants. His message is blunt and needed: academic freedom is not for sale. Universities should answer to students and communities — not partisan politicians. 📣
🛠️ Why this matters in Missouri too
It’s easy to dismiss this as a California fight, but it’s not. If Washington can pressure USC, it can pressure Missouri’s universities. From Mizzou’s research hubs to Lincoln University’s programs in Jefferson City, federal dollars support agriculture, healthcare, and rural broadband projects right here at home. If those funds come with partisan strings, our communities lose. That’s why the Trump political power grab against colleges is a national issue. 🚜
📚 What’s at stake for students
Universities approached by this compact are “reviewing” it, but faculty and students are raising red flags. If grants and aid depend on aligning with partisan demands, students lose choice, research is restricted, and America’s global competitiveness suffers. Imagine fields like medical science or climate research being funded only if they fit the agenda of the day. That’s not higher education — that’s state-mandated conformity. 🎯
🔎 A dangerous precedent
Once politics dictates who gets money, nothing is safe. Today it’s admissions rules; tomorrow it could be which majors survive or which ideas can be studied. History shows us that freedom erodes not all at once but piece by piece. That’s the chilling reality of this Trump political power grab against colleges. 🧪
🧭 The bigger picture
The administration insists this is about “balance” and “accountability.” But make no mistake: tying taxpayer funds to political loyalty tests is extortion. It’s the weaponization of Washington against citizens who pay their taxes and expect fairness. This isn’t accountability — it’s abuse of power. 🇺🇸
💬 Bottom Line
Touché. Newsom called it out, and he’s right. This Trump political power grab against colleges shows how far Washington will go to bully states, taxpayers, and students. America deserves leaders who defend freedom in classrooms and labs — not politicians who hold education hostage for power. 📚🛑
🔮 What’s Next
The fight over this compact is only beginning. Universities, governors, and Congress will face pressure to choose between standing up for academic freedom or bowing to political power plays. For Missourians and all Americans, the lesson is clear: when Washington tries to control classrooms, citizens must push back. 🎓
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📖 Stay updated: rickydana.org/news-you-should-know
Sources:
Los Angeles Times — Trump asks USC, other colleges to commit to his political agenda
Reuters — US memo to colleges proposes terms on ideology and enrollment
Politico — Newsom slams Trump’s demands on universities
The Guardian — California vows to cut funding to universities that cave
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