Just days after Donald Trump assured voters that historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) had “no reason” to worry about federal funding under his leadership, his administration proposed a sweeping budget cut to one of the nation’s most prominent HBCUs: Howard University.
The proposed 2026 budget, released by the White House this week, would slash $64 million in funding for the D.C.-based institution, a move that contradicts Trump’s recent remarks during a NewsNation town hall. The president had been asked by commentator Stephen A. Smith if HBCUs should be concerned about future cuts. Trump responded, “not at all,” before launching into a defense of his record on Black education funding.
Now, critics point to the proposed reduction as evidence that those assurances were unfounded. The White House said the cut reflects a return to the 2021 budget level, stating: “The budget reduces funding for Howard University to the 2021 budget level to more sustainably support the nation’s only federally-chartered [HBCU].”
Administration officials also noted that the 2025 funding levels included the final installment of a $300 million federal commitment to build a new hospital, implying that the one-time expenditure had inflated last year’s numbers.
Still, the announcement sparked concern among supporters of the university and HBCU advocates. In a statement, Howard University acknowledged the proposal, emphasizing its historic and ongoing role in advancing opportunity:
“As a leading HBCU, Howard has since its founding in 1867, cultivated talent, unlocked opportunity, and contributed mightily to every sector of American life.”
The university added that it looked forward to working to “sustain the FY 2026 budget to at least the level provided in FY 2025, ensuring the continued advancement of our mission and the legacy of academic excellence that defines Howard University.”
For many, the proposal is indicative of Trump’s lack of commitment to HBCUs, particularly in light of his recent policies dismantling the U.S. Department of Education and rolling back diversity initiatives.
