The deal with Trump: Get the facts
Cornell struck a deal with the Trump administration on November 7, 2025 to restore over 250 million in frozen federal research funding. They agreed to pay 30 million to the U.S Treasury, as well as to shell out 30 million in agriculture research over three years. This agreement runs through December 31, 2028. President Kotlikoff claims that Cornell retains autonomy from federal aims in spite of this deal, but does the federal administration’s viewpoint support this narrative?
The deal in washington’s words
“Thanks to this deal with Cornell and the ongoing work of DOJ, HHS, and the team at ED, U.S. universities are refocusing their attention on merit, rigor, and truth-seeking—not ideology.”
“Today’s deal is a positive outcome that illustrates the value of universities working with this administration — we are grateful to Cornell for working towards this agreement.”
The deal in Cornell’s words
“The good news of the agreement is that there will be no impact on Cornell’s academic curriculum or free speech on campus.”
Fact:
On April 30, 2026, Michael Kotlikoff hit two students with his car for exercising their right to free speech on campus.
