Grand Canyon University President Brian Mueller refutes accusations of deceptive advertising, arguing that the Biden administration's lawsuit against the university is driven by political motives rather than genuine concerns about student welfare.
In response to a recent lawsuit filed by the Biden administration accusing Grand Canyon University (GCU) of deceptive advertising, President Brian Mueller has vehemently defended the university's practices and accused the government of engaging in politically motivated harassment.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has alleged that GCU failed to adequately inform Ph.D. students that they must take coursework while completing their dissertations. Mueller dismisses this claim as "a pretextual deceit," arguing that the university has consistently provided clear information to its students.
Supporting Mueller's assertion is the fact that GCU has faced no complaints from students regarding this matter. Furthermore, the Department of Education has imposed a staggering $37.7 million fine on GCU, which is significantly higher than the fines levied against Penn State for failing to report the sex crimes of Jerry Sandusky and Michigan State for failing to address sexual assault committed by Larry Nasser.
GCU, with over 100,000 students enrolled, is a renowned success story, known for its diversity, affordability, and commitment to student success. The university has consistently frozen tuition for over 15 years, providing access to higher education for low-income families and underrepresented communities.
In light of these achievements, Mueller questions the Biden administration's motivations for targeting GCU. He suggests that the government is hostile towards private, affordable educational institutions that do not align with the "statist party line."
The Goldwater Institute, where Mueller's attorney Stacy Skankey works, has obtained records through a Freedom of Information Act request that indicate a close coordination between government agencies and political appointees in the effort to prosecute GCU.
One such record reveals that the Department of Education coordinated press releases with the White House, suggesting a political agenda driving the investigation and prosecution. Additionally, the vast majority of communications regarding the case have been redacted, raising concerns about government transparency and accountability.
Mueller's testimony before Congress has exposed the Biden administration's intention to "shut down" GCU, indicating a broader attack on the viability of private, affordable higher education.
The lawsuit against GCU and the administration's unwillingness to provide full transparency have raised alarm among Americans concerned about the government's potential suppression of educational alternatives to the current status quo.
As the legal battle unfolds, GCU remains committed to providing its students with access to quality, affordable education and to fighting against what it perceives as politically motivated harassment.
