Sure, here is the article rewritten in the third person:
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On Friday, former President Donald Trump reiterated his threat to revoke Harvard University’s tax-exempt status. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, “We are going to be taking away Harvard’s Tax Exempt Status. It’s what they deserve!”
This comment marked another exchange in the ongoing conflict between Trump’s administration and Harvard, recognized as the wealthiest college globally. Trump initially proposed the idea of revoking the university’s nonprofit tax status in April. He posted that Harvard should be taxed as a political entity if it continues promoting what he termed ‘political, ideological, and terrorist inspired/supporting Sickness.’
The administration has accused the university of not adequately protecting Jewish students on campus and provided Harvard with a list of demands. Failure to meet these demands could result in the university losing approximately $9 billion in federal funding. Harvard’s administration, however, rejected these demands, describing them as illegal and an attempt to dictate what private universities can teach, who they can admit and hire, and the areas they can explore. Consequently, the government has frozen more than $2.2 billion in federal funding.
Most colleges and universities in the United States enjoy tax-exempt status alongside charities, religious institutions, and certain political organizations. This status has enabled elite institutions, such as Harvard, to accumulate significant endowments. According to reports, Harvard boasts the largest endowment, exceeding $50 billion.
Republicans have historically lobbied to reduce tax exemptions in higher education. In 2017, Congress implemented a 1.4% tax on university endowments, affecting many of the nation’s elite schools. While the president cannot directly revoke an organization’s tax-exempt status, he can request action from the Internal Revenue Service.
Harvard has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, alleging violations of the First Amendment and improper procedures. The trial, which has been expedited, is set to commence this summer.
