Staff Reports
Sen. JD Vance (R-OH) is not backing down when it comes to holding colleges and universities accountable for violating the Supreme Court’s rulings on affirmative action. After sending a letter to multiple elite schools warning them to comply with the law, Vance has now taken his concerns to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ).
In his recent letter to Lina Khan, chair of the FTC, and Jonathan Kanter, assistant attorney general for the DOJ Antitrust Division, Vance highlights the growing concern over coordinated conduct by competing colleges and universities. He points out that many top universities, including some that received his previous letter, are currently involved in antitrust litigation related to their financial aid policies and admissions practices.
Ohio GOP Senator JD Vance is demanding that 10 colleges and universities preserve their communications after expressing open hostility to the Supreme Court's recent ruling on affirmative action. Vance expressed concern about their potential unlawful… https://t.co/MaTZV9RAYl
— The America One News (@am1_news) July 6, 2023
Vance’s letter comes at a time when 17 colleges are already facing a lawsuit supported by the Justice Department over allegations of price-fixing in their financial aid policies. With the ban on racial preferences, these universities could face even more legal troubles if they secretly agree to adopt the same admissions practices to preserve the demographic makeup of their classes.
It is quite alarming that none of the schools responded in good faith to Vance’s initial letter. Instead, they all provided generalized and dismissive statements, raising suspicions of collusion. Vance noticed striking similarities in their responses, from the length of the letters to the phrasing used to promise compliance with the Supreme Court’s decision.
Vance raises valid concerns about the potential coordination and collusion among these institutions, especially in the context of admissions policies post-Harvard College decision. He emphasizes that federal authorities should be alarmed if other elite schools follow in the footsteps of Columbia Law School’s now-rescinded requirement for applicants to submit a video statement, allowing admissions officers to observe their race.
In the conclusion of his letter, Vance suggests that collusive behavior by colleges and universities, particularly regarding new admissions policies, should be subject to a 6(b) study. This special report would shed light on any potential wrongdoing and ensure that these institutions are held accountable for their actions.
It is refreshing to see a senator like Vance taking a stand against unfair practices in academia. Affirmative action should be based on merit, not on race or ethnicity. It is essential to maintain fairness and equal opportunity for all individuals, regardless of their background. Let’s hope that the FTC and DOJ take Vance’s concerns seriously and take appropriate action to prevent any further collusion or violation of the law.
