In a combative Senate hearing on Tuesday, Education Secretary Linda McMahon tried to defend her actions as Democratic Sen. Chris Murphy of Connecticut pressed her on policy. The questioning focused on the Trump administration’s contradictory attacks on diversity programs and the legality of withholding federal funds from schools like Harvard University.

“Where in the statute does it give you the ability to cut off federal funding for a university based upon your decision, your determination that they don't have viewpoint diversity?” Murphy asked McMahon, demanding she give a legal basis for her department’s moves against schools with diversity programs.

“Title VI,” McMahon finally answered, citing the Civil Rights Act of 1964 that prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or nationa

See Full Page