The politics of science San Jose Rep. Lofgren calls out Trump for cuts impacting research

A letter from nearly 150 National Science Foundation (NSF) employees criticized President Trump's administration for actions undermining the agency, including a proposed 56% budget cut. The employees warned that political interference is disrupting the merit-based review system for grant proposals and that 1,600 active grants have been terminated without transparency, jeopardizing $1. 3 billion in funding. San Jose State University faced a loss of over $3. 5 million in grants, which provided essential research opportunities for students.

Jesus Soriano, president of the AFGE Local 3403 union, stated, “When there’s no science, there is no future,” highlighting the risk to startups reliant on NSF funding. Assistant Professor Sonia Singhal pointed out that the abrupt cuts are preventing research payments and purchasing lab supplies, causing significant disruptions. The NSF has historically supported key scientific advancements, such as CRISPR and MRI technology. The letter reflects deep concerns about the long-term impacts of these actions on scientific innovation and education. As the NSF faces these challenges, the broader scientific community is urged to respond to protect its integrity and future.