Howard University Faces Proposed Budget Cuts Despite Trump’s Assurances to HBCUs

Just days after former President Donald Trump confidently told a national audience that historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) had “nothing to worry about” when it comes to federal funding, a new budget proposal from his team is telling a much different story.

At the heart of the controversy is Howard University — the only federally chartered HBCU and one of the most influential institutions in Black higher education. Under the proposed 2026 federal budget, Howard stands to lose $64 million in funding, a sharp reduction that has sent ripples through the HBCU community.

The White House claims this rollback reflects a return to “sustainable” funding levels from 2021, noting that the 2025 budget included a one-time, $300 million federal commitment for a new hospital on campus. But to many, including Howard’s administration, the proposed cut feels like more than just an accounting decision — it feels like a betrayal.

Words Don’t Match the Policy

At a recent NewsNation town hall, Trump responded to a question from media personality Stephen A. Smith — a known Trump sympathizer — about whether HBCUs should be worried about funding under his leadership. Trump assured viewers there was no threat, citing his past actions and framing himself as a champion for Black colleges.

However, the stark contrast between those words and this budget proposal is raising alarms, especially considering the broader pattern of attacks on educational equity and diversity initiatives coming from his political circle.

Howard Responds

In a formal statement, Howard University expressed disappointment while reaffirming its mission:

“The University is aware of the Trump Administration’s proposed funding recommendations… As a leading HBCU, Howard has since its founding in 1867 cultivated talent, unlocked opportunity, and contributed mightily to every sector of American life.”

Howard emphasized its ongoing role as a top-tier research institution and as a leader in economic mobility for Black students. “We look forward to engaging with policymakers to sustain the FY 2026 budget at least at the level of FY 2025,” the statement continued, underscoring the school’s readiness to advocate for its future.

A Pattern of Concern

This budget battle is bigger than Howard. HBCU leaders across the country are watching closely, especially amid ongoing concerns about potential threats to the Department of Education and federally supported diversity initiatives.

The deeper worry is that if a school as prominent as Howard can have its funding threatened, what might be in store for smaller HBCUs that don’t have the same level of visibility or federal status?

The Bottom Line

For HBCU advocates and alumni, the latest budget proposal is a sobering reminder that promises on the campaign trail don’t always survive in Washington. As this debate unfolds, HBCU Original will continue to follow the money — and the message — to ensure our community stays informed and empowered.