Key Takeaways:
- Five top universities criticize President Trump publicly but hire lobbyists close to him privately.
- Schools include Johns Hopkins, Cornell, Northwestern, University of Michigan, and Harvard.
- They work with Ballard Partners and Miller Strategies, firms linked to Trump.
- This shows a gap between their public statements and private actions.
Elite Universities: Speaking Out but Reaching In
Colleges and universities are known for speaking their minds, especially on politics. But here’s something interesting: some of the most prestigious schools in the U.S. are playing both sides. From Johns Hopkins to Harvard, these schools have publicly criticized President Donald Trump. Yet, behind the scenes, they’re hiring lobbyists with strong ties to Trump to influence the White House.
Why? Well, influence in Washington often comes with a price tag. Federal lobbying disclosures reveal that these universities have signed contracts with Ballard Partners and Miller Strategies, two firms deeply connected to Trump’s orbit. These lobbyists act as middlemen, helping the schools gain favor with the administration.
At first glance, it seems contradictory. These schools openly oppose Trump’s policies, yet they’re quietly working with his allies. Why the double approach?
Why Are Universities Lobbying the White House?
Universities often rely on federal funding for research, student aid, and other programs. They also want to shape policies that affect higher education. Lobbying firms like Ballard Partners and Miller Strategies specialize in getting their clients’ voices heard in Washington.
But why these firms specifically? Ballard Partners, for instance, has a well-known connection to Trump. The firm’s founder, Brian Ballard, is a longtime Trump supporter. Miller Strategies also has ties to the administration. By hiring these firms, universities are betting that their lobbyists can open doors that might otherwise stay closed.
Is this strategy effective? It’s hard to say. Lobbying results aren’t always public, but the fact that top schools are investing in these firms suggests they see value in it.
The Gap Between Public Talk and Private Action
On campus, these universities often take bold stands. They release statements criticizing Trump’s policies, from immigration to education reforms. Their leaders give speeches about standing up for their values. But when it comes to getting what they want from Washington, they’re willing to work with Trump-friendly lobbyists.
This gap between public criticism and private collaboration raises questions. Are these universities being hypocritical, or are they just playing the political game?
One thing is clear: in politics, sometimes you need to work with people you disagree with to achieve your goals. For universities, the goal is often to secure funding, influence policy, or protect their interests. If hiring a Trump-connected lobbyist helps them do that, they’re willing to do it—even if it doesn’t align with their public image.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you’re a student, parent, or just someone interested in politics, this story might make you think. Why do powerful institutions like Harvard or Johns Hopkins need lobbyists? And why are they working with firms tied to a president they publicly oppose?
The answer lies in how Washington works. Influence often comes through relationships, and lobbyists specialize in building those relationships. For universities, it’s about protecting their interests and securing funding. For lobbyists, it’s about getting paid to deliver results.
But here’s another angle: transparency. Should universities be clearer about their lobbying efforts? After all, they’re public institutions, and their actions matter to the public.
A Closer Look at the Schools Involved
Let’s break down the schools hiring these lobbyists:
- Johns Hopkins University: Known for medical research and innovation, Johns Hopkins likely wants to protect federal funding for research projects.
- Cornell University: As an Ivy League school, Cornell may be seeking to influence policies on education and research funding.
- Northwestern University: With strong programs in engineering and law, Northwestern might be lobbying for support in those areas.
- University of Michigan: A public powerhouse, Michigan could be focused on securing funds for public universities.
- Harvard University: With its massive endowment and global reputation, Harvard may be protecting its interests in research and international policies.
Each school has its own reasons for lobbying. But they all share a common strategy: working with lobbyists close to Trump.
Is This a Common Practice?
Lobbying in Washington isn’t new. Corporations, nonprofits, and even universities have been hiring lobbyists for decades. What’s unusual here is the contrast between these schools’ public criticism of Trump and their private efforts to influence his administration.
It’s not illegal or unethical for universities to lobby. It’s just a reminder of how politics works. Sometimes, even rivals find common ground when it suits their goals.
What’s Next for These Universities?
Moving forward, these schools will likely continue to walk this fine line. They’ll keep criticizing Trump publicly to align with their values and satisfy their critics. Privately, they’ll keep lobbying to protect their interests.
The real question is whether this strategy will work. Will hiring Trump-connected lobbyists help these universities achieve their goals? Only time will tell.
One thing is certain: this story highlights the complexities of politics. Even the most vocal critics can find common ground when it’s convenient. For universities, it’s about results. For the rest of us, it’s a reminder that politics often operates in shades of gray.
In the end, this isn’t just a story about universities or politics. It’s a story about how power works in America. And sometimes, that means making unlikely alliances.