Bill Ackman says Trump is doing ‘precisely the right thing’ as admin freezes billions of dollars for Harvard

New York Post - May 6th, 2025

Billionaire investor Bill Ackman has publicly criticized Harvard University for what he describes as 'administrative bloat' and poor investment management of its $53 billion endowment. Speaking at the Milken Institute Global Conference, Ackman supported the Trump administration's decision to freeze future grants to Harvard, arguing that the university's financial issues are self-inflicted due to mismanagement. Ackman, a Harvard alumnus, accused the university of losing grants and risking tax exemptions, aligning with the Trump administration's move to impose demands on the Ivy League institution.

The Trump administration's decision to withhold billions in future research grants has sparked controversy, with Harvard claiming the move imposes 'unprecedented and improper control' over the institution. Ackman's criticism extends beyond financial mismanagement; he has previously challenged Harvard's governance and its handling of antisemitism. The hedge fund manager views the current situation as an opportunity to reform how the university operates, suggesting that its faculty and researchers could easily relocate. Ackman's comments highlight ongoing tensions between elite educational institutions and federal government policies under the Trump administration.

Trump Administration Bill Ackman Harvard University Administrative Bloat Endowment Management Grant Freeze

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RATING

5.2

Moderately Fair

Read with skepticism

The article presents a timely and relevant topic concerning the intersection of education, finance, and politics. However, it falls short in providing a balanced and well-supported analysis. The heavy reliance on Bill Ackman's perspective, without sufficient corroboration from other sources or detailed evidence, limits the article's credibility and depth. While the language and structure are clear, the lack of diverse viewpoints and comprehensive context may leave readers with unanswered questions. To fully engage and inform its audience, the article would benefit from a more thorough exploration of the issues at hand, including input from Harvard representatives and independent experts.

Accuracy

The article presents several factual claims, such as Bill Ackman's criticisms of Harvard's financial management and the Trump administration's actions to freeze grants. While these claims align with known public statements and actions, the article lacks detailed evidence or external sources to verify these claims. For example, the specific demands by the Trump administration and the exact financial impact on Harvard are not clearly outlined. Additionally, Ackman's assertion that Harvard's endowment is 'poorly invested' is presented without supporting data or comparison to other institutions.

Balance

The article predominantly presents Ackman's perspective and criticisms of Harvard, with limited representation of counterarguments or alternative viewpoints. Harvard's response is briefly mentioned, but the lack of detail or quotes from university representatives suggests a potential imbalance. The article could benefit from including perspectives from Harvard officials or independent experts to provide a more rounded view of the situation.

Clarity

The article is generally clear in its language and structure, presenting the main points in a straightforward manner. However, the lack of detailed evidence and context can lead to confusion about the validity of the claims. The tone remains neutral, but the article could benefit from a more logical flow that connects the various elements of the story more cohesively.

Source quality

The article relies heavily on Bill Ackman's statements and lacks a variety of sources. There are no references to official documents, statements from Harvard, or independent analysis to corroborate the claims made. The absence of diverse and authoritative sources diminishes the article's reliability and leaves potential conflicts of interest unaddressed.

Transparency

The article does not clearly disclose the basis for its claims or the methodology behind the information presented. There is little context provided for the financial figures mentioned or the legal implications of the Trump administration's actions. Furthermore, the article does not reveal any potential conflicts of interest that could affect the reporting, such as Ackman's personal or professional ties to the issues discussed.