Universities across the U.S. aren’t sitting back as the Trump administration threatens to slash their funding. Instead, they’re getting ready to push back. From hiring lobbyists with strong Republican ties to boosting their presence in Washington, schools are taking action to protect their interests.

For example, Columbia University has brought on BGR Group, a lobbying firm co-founded by Haley Barbour, a former Mississippi governor and Republican National Committee chairman. It’s a clear sign that universities are serious about defending their federal dollars — and they’re not waiting for the storm to hit before preparing.

The move comes after President Trump and Vice President JD Vance doubled down on campaign promises to cut funding and impose new regulations on higher education. While college leaders aren’t eager to publicly clash with the administration, many are quietly strategizing behind the scenes. Some are even adjusting their messaging and policies to avoid becoming political targets. Rutgers University, for instance, recently canceled a diversity, equity, and inclusion conference, likely to avoid provoking the new administration.

Experts note that universities are in a tough spot. “There’s a concern among a lot of campuses,” says an education policy professor at Brown University. “They’re trying to figure out how to navigate this new landscape without losing everything they’ve worked for.”

As the battle over funding heats up, one thing is clear: universities aren’t backing down without a fight.