It’s no secret that Donald Trump isn’t fond of elite academic institutions — and Barack Obama clearly shares little admiration for Trump. Speaking at Hamilton College in New York, Obama addressed the ideological divide between them, saying, “I have deep differences of opinion with my most immediate successor — who’s now president once again.” He added that the government’s dedication to core values has “eroded.”

Obama’s comments come amid growing tension between Harvard University and the Trump administration. The Department of Education recently froze $2.3 billion in federal funding after Harvard refused to comply with demands — including dismantling diversity programs and changing hiring/admissions policies. Harvard has refused, asserting its right to independence and academic freedom.

Obama, a Harvard Law alum, voiced his support on X, praising the university for resisting political interference and protecting intellectual freedom. “Harvard has set an example… Let’s hope other institutions follow suit,” he said.

This clash has sparked a broader national debate about who controls education and how far political influence should reach in academia.