Key Takeaways
- Harvard University and other institutions have filed high-profile lawsuits against the Trump administration, challenging policies on international students, federal funding, and tax-exempt status.
- Multiple states and organizations have sued the Trump administration over issues such as infrastructure funding, tariffs, and environmental transparency, raising significant constitutional and statutory questions.
- Donald Trump has also initiated lawsuits, including a major defamation case against CBS News, reflecting ongoing legal battles with media organizations.
Overview of Trump-Related Lawsuits
The Trump administration has been the subject of numerous lawsuits from universities, states, organizations, and individuals. These legal challenges cover a wide range of issues, including immigration policy, federal funding, tariffs, environmental transparency, and media relations. This guide provides an overview of the most significant lawsuits involving the Trump administration, with a focus on the recent legal actions by Harvard University and other prominent cases.
Harvard University v. Trump Administration
Background
In May 2025, Harvard University filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration after the administration announced a policy revoking Harvard’s ability to enroll new international students. The administration also froze $2.2 billion in federal funding to the university and threatened to revoke its tax-exempt status. These actions were described by Harvard as a "blatant violation" of the U.S. Constitution and federal law.
Legal Claims
Harvard’s complaint alleges violations of several key legal principles:
- First Amendment: Harvard argues that the administration’s actions infringe on academic freedom and free speech rights.
- Due Process Clause: The university claims that the policy was enacted without proper notice or opportunity for affected parties to respond, violating procedural due process.
- Administrative Procedure Act (APA): Harvard asserts that the administration’s actions were arbitrary, capricious, and lacked a rational basis, in violation of the APA.
The full text of Harvard’s complaint is available here (PDF).
Implications
This lawsuit has significant implications for higher education, federal funding, and the status of international students in the United States. The administration’s attempt to revoke Harvard’s tax-exempt status and freeze federal funds raises questions about the limits of executive power over educational institutions. The case is being closely watched by other universities and advocacy groups.
For more details, see coverage by Reuters, The Washington Post, and Politico.
State Lawsuits Against the Trump Administration
Infrastructure Funding Dispute
A coalition of states, led by California, has sued the Trump administration for allegedly withholding billions of dollars in bipartisan infrastructure funds. The states argue that the administration’s actions violate Congressional mandates and unlawfully restrict funds that were already appropriated by law. The lawsuit claims that the withholding of funds undermines critical infrastructure projects and sets a dangerous precedent for federal-state relations.
The official announcement from the California Governor’s Office can be found here.
Tariffs and Economic Policy
Twelve U.S. states have filed a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s imposition of new tariffs, referred to as "Liberation Day" tariffs. The states argue that these tariffs were enacted without proper statutory authority and constitute a "blank check" approach that harms state economies. The lawsuit raises questions about the scope of presidential power in trade policy and the impact of tariffs on domestic industries.
Further information is available from Reuters.
Environmental and Transparency Lawsuits
Center for Biological Diversity v. Environmental Protection Agency
The Center for Biological Diversity has sued the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), alleging that the agency failed to release information about its plans under the Trump administration. The lawsuit claims that the EPA’s lack of transparency violates federal law and undermines public oversight of environmental policy. This case reflects broader concerns about environmental regulation and government accountability during the Trump administration.
Details about this lawsuit can be found on the Center for Biological Diversity’s official website.
Trump-Initiated Lawsuits
Trump v. CBS News
In May 2025, Donald Trump filed a $20 billion lawsuit against CBS News, alleging defamation related to a "60 Minutes" interview with former Vice President Kamala Harris. Trump claims that the interview contained false and damaging statements, and that CBS News engaged in "fake news" practices. The lawsuit is part of Trump’s broader legal strategy against media organizations he perceives as hostile.
Coverage of this lawsuit is available from USA Today.
Legal Arguments and Media Law
Trump’s lawsuit against CBS News raises important questions about the boundaries of defamation law, the First Amendment, and the role of the press in political discourse. Defamation cases involving public figures require proof of "actual malice," a high legal standard established by the U.S. Supreme Court. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for media organizations and public officials.
Broader Legal and Constitutional Issues
Executive Power and Federalism
Many of the lawsuits against the Trump administration center on the limits of executive power and the balance between federal and state authority. Disputes over funding, tariffs, and regulatory policy highlight ongoing tensions between the executive branch and other branches of government, as well as between federal and state governments.
Impact on Policy and Precedent
The outcomes of these lawsuits may set important legal precedents affecting higher education, immigration, trade, environmental policy, and media law. They also reflect broader debates about the rule of law, government accountability, and the protection of constitutional rights.
Conclusion
The Trump administration’s legal challenges are complex and far-reaching, involving multiple parties and a wide range of legal issues. From Harvard’s lawsuit over international student policies to state challenges on infrastructure funding and tariffs, these cases will shape the legal landscape for years to come. Ongoing litigation, such as Trump’s defamation suit against CBS News, underscores the continuing intersection of law, politics, and the media.
For attorneys and legal researchers seeking in-depth analysis and primary sources, visit Counsel Stack for comprehensive legal research tools.
Disclaimer: This guide provides a general overview of ongoing and recent lawsuits involving the Trump administration. Many cases discussed are active and based on current allegations; facts and legal outcomes may change as litigation progresses. For specific legal advice or detailed research, consult a qualified attorney or visit official court documents.
