Republican lawmakers are moving to build on 2025’s higher‑education policy changes, and university leaders are mobilizing legal and public‑affairs strategies in response. Congressional Republicans seek additional statutory reform and oversight; at the same time, campus leaders warn that new tax or regulatory moves could tip fragile institutions into crisis. Commentators and university presidents argue for a clear strategy to defend academic freedom and institutional autonomy, citing recent demands from the federal government and state actors that have pressured universities over campus speech, DEI programming and research priorities. The debate is playing out in courtrooms, on campuses and in trustee rooms. Higher‑ed officials stress that sustained federal funding and predictable regulatory frameworks are essential for research and student success, while some lawmakers argue for tighter accountability and targeted fiscal reforms. For campus executives: proactive engagement with Congress, clear documentation of compliance and communications with trustees will be critical as policy negotiations continue.