Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
President Donald Trump publicly announced on May 26, 2025, via his social media platform Truth Social, that he is considering redirecting $3 billion in federal grant money from Harvard University to trade schools across the United States. In his post, he criticized Harvard as “very antisemitic” and stated:
“I am considering taking Three Billion Dollars of Grant Money away from a very antisemitic Harvard and giving it to TRADE SCHOOLS all across our land. What a great investment that would be for the USA, and so badly needed!!!”
This announcement follows a series of actions by the Trump administration targeting Harvard, including freezing federal grants and attempting to revoke the university’s ability to enroll international students. These measures are part of a broader effort by the administration to address what it perceives as antisemitism and ideological bias in elite academic institutions.
Harvard has filed lawsuits challenging the administration’s actions, arguing that the funding cuts and other measures violate the university’s constitutional rights and academic independence. A federal judge recently issued a temporary restraining order blocking the administration’s attempt to revoke Harvard’s certification to enroll international students—source NPR.
While the proposal to reallocate $3 billion in grant money to trade schools has been publicly stated by President Trump, it remains uncertain how the plan would be implemented. Most of the funds are earmarked for research and require congressional approval for redirection.
In light of the announcement, Texas Border Business urges South Texas lawmakers, such as Senators and Representatives Monica De La Cruz, Vicente Gonzalez, and Henry Cuellar, to advocate for a portion of the proposed funds allocated to trade schools in the Rio Grande Valley. These institutions are crucial in preparing the local workforce for technical and vocational careers.
Notable trade schools and technical institutions in the Rio Grande Valley include South Texas College, Texas State Technical College (TSTC) in Harlingen, and RGV CDL Services. These institutions offer welding, automotive technology, healthcare, HVAC, and commercial driving programs.
If the proposed redirection moves forward, securing funds for the Valley’s trade schools could significantly enhance regional workforce development and create new opportunities for students across South Texas.
