It seems really clear that the order as operations is as follows:
1. Administration makes demands of Harvard to change the way it's operating to fall in line.
2. Harvard stands up against these demands.
3. Administration is using every means possible to punish Harvard for daring taking a stand against it.
This is what dictatorships look like.
Extortion is Trump's favorite tactic. He's been punishing Maine for standing up to him. The law firms too. Soon the democrats when he can get past deporting the criminal U.S citizens.
I don't think it's unreasonable to say people are the only option to change our trajectory. We haven't reached critical mass yet, but the next national protest is April 19th which lands on the 250th revolutionary war anniversary. Be there or be square.
Washington State too. "Oh, you had cyclones and asked FEMA for money? Denied! Because, uh, hm, wasn't really an emergency."