The Enduring Political Animosity Towards Universities

The sentiment that universities and their faculty are somehow at odds with prevailing political ideologies is not new. A statement attributed to Vice President J.D. Vance, declaring “The professors are the enemy,” resurfaced in early 2025, sparking renewed debate. Though, the origin of this claim traces back further, to a 1972 conversation between President Richard Nixon and his national security advisor, Henry Kissinger.¹ This historical context reveals a long-standing tension between political power and institutions of higher learning.

Nixon’s Distrust and the Roots of the Conflict

In December 1972, Richard Nixon confided to Henry Kissinger his deep distrust of university professors, famously stating, “The professors are the enemy.”¹ He reportedly instructed Kissinger to “write that on a blackboard 100 times and never forget it.”² Ironically, Kissinger himself was a Harvard professor.² This initial expression of animosity occurred during a period of significant social and political upheaval, with universities becoming centers for anti-war protests and the New Left movement.

Vance and the Resurgence of the Critique

Fast forward to 2021, and J.D. Vance echoed Nixon’s sentiment during a speech at the National Conservatism Conference in Orlando, Florida.¹ Vance explicitly framed his statement as a quotation of Nixon, acknowledging the historical precedent.¹ He criticized universities for allegedly promoting ideologies he opposed, such as critical race theory and radical gender ideology, and advocated for a more “patriotic account of American history.”²

The Evolving Relationship: Dependence and Animosity

Despite recurring criticisms, the relationship between the federal government and universities has been complex and often symbiotic. Universities rely heavily on federal funding for research, scholarships, and grants.³ However, this dependence has as well made them vulnerable to political pressure. Recent years have seen increased scrutiny of university programs, particularly those related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (D.E.I.).³ The Trump Administration, for example, initiated investigations into potential violations of federal law on college campuses and terminated significant grant funding.³

The Elite University Paradox

Elite universities, while expanding their reputations and becoming more diverse, also face criticism for perpetuating social inequalities. These institutions often have enormous endowments and attract students from privileged backgrounds.³ The tension between a commitment to excellence and a desire for broader access creates a difficult balancing act. As one university president noted, there is a constant pressure to maintain high standards while also striving for inclusivity.³

A Historical Pattern

The vilification of professors and universities is a recurring theme throughout history, dating back to the trial of Socrates in ancient Athens.² The current wave of criticism reflects a broader pattern of political animosity towards institutions perceived as challenging established norms or promoting dissenting viewpoints.