BREAKING: Gov. Hobbs Criticizes Trump’s UA Compact Deal

UPDATE: Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has declared the recent federal compact proposal from President Donald Trump for the University of Arizona (UA) a “bad deal,” emphasizing serious concerns over its implications for academic integrity and governance. This urgent statement comes as the UA faces a tight deadline: the university must provide feedback by Monday and make a final decision by November 21.

The contentious compact, which includes demands for significant policy changes in exchange for federal funding, has raised alarms among university officials and faculty. During an executive session on Friday, Hobbs, a voting member of the Arizona Board of Regents (ABOR), chose not to intervene directly in the discussions, stating, “The university and ABOR are really taking the lead.” However, she voiced strong criticism of the proposal’s stipulations.

The compact, sent to UA and eight other universities on October 1, outlines controversial requirements, including mandates for standardized testing for all undergraduate applicants and a controversial demand for “institutional neutrality” on political issues. Hobbs warned that these provisions border on censorship and could undermine academic freedom.

“I think we are very much bordering on censorship,” Hobbs stated, highlighting the risks associated with the compact.

Critics, including nearly 80 top UA professors and the Pima County Board of Supervisors, have urged President Suresh Garimella to reject the deal, citing fears that it could jeopardize existing federal funding amounting to approximately $500 million. Concerns are also growing regarding the compact’s demands to freeze tuition for five years and limit international student enrollment to 15%.

The university currently has an international student population of just 3.3%, and Hobbs emphasized the financial importance of these students, stating their tuition helps cover costs that in-state tuition does not. She stressed that arbitrary federal mandates could have detrimental effects on the university’s funding structure.

Further complicating the situation, the compact proposes stringent oversight by the U.S. Department of Justice, which could impose severe penalties for perceived violations. Hobbs described this as a troubling move that politicizes funding for vital research initiatives, including life-saving medical advancements.

The urgent nature of the decision is underscored by the White House’s expectation for prompt feedback on the compact, with little room for negotiation as stated in their communications. As the deadline looms, the UA community remains divided, with growing calls for action against what many perceive as federal overreach into academic governance.

As the board prepares to meet again, the pressure mounts for a clear stance on whether to accept a deal that many believe poses a threat to the university’s independence and integrity. The upcoming days will be critical as stakeholders await the university’s response and weigh the implications of this contentious federal proposal.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story, as the future of the UA’s funding and governance hangs in the balance.