Richard Nixon’s statement, “The professors are the enemy,” originated from a conversation with his National Security Advisor, Henry Kissinger, in 1972. In this discussion, Nixon expressed distrust toward various institutions, including the press, the establishment, and professors, whom he saw as hostile to his policies.
More recently, J.D. Vance, the designated Vice President of the United States, echoed this quote. At the 2021 National Conservatism Conference, Vance explicitly referenced Nixon’s words, stating, “The professors are the enemy.” In his speech, Vance criticized the role of universities and professors, arguing that they promote leftist ideologies and negatively influence society.
This revival of Nixon’s quote by Vance reflects a persistent skepticism within conservative circles toward academic institutions. Many conservatives view universities as places where progressive or liberal ideas are spread, often contrary to their own political beliefs. Vance argues that professors and universities play a significant role in shaping societal values and should therefore be viewed critically.
The use of this quote today highlights the ongoing debate about the role of higher education in society and the tensions between different political camps regarding the control and orientation of academic institutions.