More than 200 university and college presidents in a joint statement accused U.S. President Donald Trump's administration of political interference in higher education, banding together after Harvard University said the government was threatening its independence.

Nearly 200 college leaders signed the letter saying they "oppose undue government intrusion in the lives of those who learn, live, and work on our campuses."

The presidents of three Oregon colleges are among the leaders of nearly 200 U.S. colleges and universities who are calling on the Trump administration to stop “unprecedented government overreach and political interference now endangering American higher education.”