Trump Budget Proposes Drastic Science Cuts, Sparks Outrage

President Trump’s proposed FY2026 budget slashes funding for nearly every major science agency, threatening projects at NIH, NSF, NASA Earth Science, and more. Critics label it “the most severe assault on research in modern history.” The administration calls many climate and public health studies “woke” or “politicized,” proposing to redirect money away from them. Observers worry this undermines innovation, from medical breakthroughs to climate modeling. Even moderate Republicans express unease at eviscerating decades of R&D investment. Labs and universities nationwide could face layoffs or grant cancellations, hurting America’s competitive edge. Analysts warn the cuts might spark lawsuits, as some worry the administration is reversing appropriated funding. Congressional battles loom—scientists hope bipartisan support might restore at least part of the research budget.