The Johns Hopkins University has significantly increased its lobbying budget in response to the Trump administration’s scrutiny, spending nearly double the amount it did last year. The university has faced losses of around $1 billion since President Donald Trump took office and is currently under federal investigation over antisemitism claims.
To protect its reputation and navigate the challenges posed by the Trump administration, Hopkins has hired well-connected firms, including one with deep ties to the president, to advocate for policies that would benefit the institution. The university’s lobbying push is not unique, as other research universities have also upped their efforts in recent months.
The University of California System and Northwestern University have nearly doubled their lobbying spending in the first three quarters of this year, while the University of Pennsylvania has increased its spending by over 80%. Hopkins has spent $1.32 million on lobbyists, employing a total of 29 lobbyists to lobby multiple issues, including the White House.
The university’s lobbying efforts are focused on protecting its interests and navigating the complexities of the Trump administration’s policies. While some firms are lobbying federal departments, others have connections to the executive office of the president, reflecting the current concentration of power in the executive branch.
Source: https://www.thebanner.com/education/higher-education/johns-hopkins-lobbying-trump-research-FKKPCQ7WIVACDAHQXOV53WRCYM