Donald Trump's presidential istration officially launches an investigation into Ohio State University

Ohio State University (OSU) is under investigation by the Trump istration for alleged antisemitic harassment and discrimination on campus.

This comes as part of a broader investigation into 60 universities, following a spike in antisemitic incidents after the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in October 2023. The U.S. Department of Education has warned these institutions of potential legal consequences if they fail to protect Jewish students.

OSU officials confirmed to NBC4 in Columbus that they have not yet received the letter related to the January 29 executive order issued by President Donald Trump, which focuses on combating antisemitism in higher education. The order calls for a stricter enforcement of federal anti-discrimination laws across U.S. colleges and universities, with Secretary of Education Linda McMahon emphasizing that universities must do more to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.

"University leaders must do better," McMahon stated, stressing that the federal funding U.S. colleges and universities receive is contingent on their adherence to these laws.

Investigations across the Big Ten

Ohio State University is not the only school under scrutiny. The University of Cincinnati, along with several other Big Ten schools-including Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Northwestern, Rutgers, and Wisconsin-are also part of the investigation. This increased federal oversight is drawing attention to rising tensions on college campuses, particularly regarding policies related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

Ohio State is also in the midst of political controversy over its decision to eliminate its DEI office, which sparked protests from students. The protests coincide with the ing of Ohio Senate Bill 1, which aims to limit DEI programs across the state. The Trump istration has made clear its opposition to DEI efforts, adding to the growing sense of activism on campuses nationwide.

Alongside the investigation, Trump has called for the cutting of federal funding to any schools that allow "illegal protests," without specifying what constitutes such protests. His statement on social media threatened severe consequences for students involved in certain protests, including possible expulsion and even deportation.

With rising scrutiny from the federal government, tensions surrounding issues of free speech, antisemitism, and university policies are becoming a focal point in discussions about higher education.

OSU now finds itself at the heart of this national debate, facing both federal pressure and campus unrest.