Read IRS code Section 501(c)(3)

This is from ChatGPT.

 

The IRS does have the power to revoke a college’s tax-exempt status, including for institutions like Harvard—but only under specific legal grounds.

 

When the IRS Can Revoke Tax-Exempt Status:

 

The IRS can revoke 501(c)(3) status if an institution:

    •    Violates established public policy (as in Bob Jones University v. United States, where racial discrimination was at issue).

    •    Engages in substantial political or lobbying activity, which is restricted for 501(c)(3) organizations.

    •    Operates for private benefit or profit, rather than exclusively for charitable or educational purposes.

    •    Fails to file required tax forms (like Form 990) for three consecutive years.

    •    Commits fraud or serious financial mismanagement.

 

Example: Could the IRS revoke Harvard’s tax-exempt status?

 

Only if the IRS finds that Harvard:

    •    Is violating a fundamental public policy (e.g., through discrimination),

    •    Is engaging in disallowed political activity,

    •    Or fails other legal requirements under the tax code.

 

Political disagreement, controversial speech, or institutional wealth alone are not valid legal grounds.

 

So yes:

 

The IRS (not the president) has the power, and SCOTUS has upheld that this power can be used—but only when certain legal thresholds are met.