California Governor Gavin Newsom took a firm stance on Friday, announcing that the state will not provide financial support to universities that he described as “sell-outs” — institutions that, in his view, compromise their values or independence in exchange for federal funding.

Speaking during an appearance in the Bay Area, Newsom criticized recent actions by the Trump administration, which has proposed that colleges and universities must adhere to a specific set of federal conditions in order to remain eligible for federal education funding. The proposal, he argued, represents a direct threat to academic freedom and the autonomy of higher education institutions.

“This is not just about money — it’s about protecting our principles and the integrity of our educational system,” Newsom said. “California will not stand by while universities are forced to compromise their missions to satisfy political agendas.”

The governor emphasized that California’s public universities and community colleges are expected to uphold independent academic standards and freedom of thought, regardless of federal pressure. He made it clear that any school choosing to comply with what he called “politically motivated mandates” could risk losing state financial support.

Newsom’s remarks underscore a growing tension between state and federal education policy, as several Democratic-led states push back against what they see as political interference in academic institutions.

Reporter Velena Jones further explained that Newsom’s comments reflect broader concerns about academic independence, student rights, and the future of higher education funding. According to Jones, the issue goes beyond politics — it touches the very foundation of how universities operate and protect diverse viewpoints within their campuses.

Watch her full report in the video above for additional context on Newsom’s statement and its potential impact on California’s higher education system.