The War Department announced Friday it will discontinue its educational programs and fellowships with Harvard University, citing concerns over the school’s shift away from traditional American values.
War Secretary Pete Hegseth explained in a video statement that this decision, affecting active-duty service members starting in the 2026-27 school year, is “long overdue.” Hegseth, a Harvard alumnus himself, stated that while the military has historically valued its relationship with the Ivy League institution, Harvard has increasingly become a hub for ideologies that are out of step with the military’s mission.
“Harvard is woke; The War Department is not,” Hegseth asserted.
Hegseth argued that many Harvard faculty members harbor negative views toward the military, promoting a leftist agenda and stifling open debate. He criticized the high tuition costs, suggesting that the education offered no longer justifies the expense.
This announcement follows ongoing scrutiny of Harvard by the Trump administration. President Trump has been vocal about his intent to hold universities accountable for promoting certain ideologies, including anti-Semitism, and has sought financial compensation from Harvard.
Hegseth also raised concerns about Harvard’s partnerships with the Chinese Communist Party and its embrace of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, arguing that these developments create an environment that undermines American principles.
“Why should the War Department support an environment that’s destructive to our nation and the principles that the vast majority of Americans hold dear?” Hegseth questioned.
He emphasized that the department will be reviewing its relationships with other Ivy League schools and civilian universities to ensure they provide cost-effective and strategic education for future military leaders, and asserted, “We train warriors, not wokesters. Harvard, good riddance.”
Harvard University has yet to respond to the Department’s announcement.
