President Trump’s Second Term and Attacks on Science
On April 30th, 2025, President Trump’s second presidential term reached its 100th day. During this time, the Trump administration has been criticized for its misuse and manipulation of science to further its political agenda within the federal government. The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) has been diligently monitoring and documenting potential attacks on science, where scientific research and policies have been jeopardized or disregarded by the administration.
Since the previous summary released on April 2nd, there have been 124 potential attacks on scientists, their work, and science-based policies, bringing the total to 343 since Inauguration Day. These attacks have targeted individuals, research grants, and entire agencies, with far-reaching consequences on areas such as healthcare and infrastructure. The sidelining of science poses a direct threat to the well-being and safety of the American population.
Amidst the chaos and disruption caused by these attacks, concerned individuals can take action to support UCS in advocating for the integrity of science in government decision-making. Resources and actionable steps are provided at the end of this article for those looking to contribute to the cause.
Impact on Research and Policy
April witnessed a surge in efforts by the Trump administration to undermine federally funded research and ignore established scientific findings, particularly in the realms of healthcare and climate change. These actions have significant implications for the future of research and the potential effects on the health and lives of Americans.
Targeting Autism: Misinformation and Conspiracy Theories
The administration has come under scrutiny for spreading misinformation about autism, particularly through debunked theories linking vaccines to the condition. Despite overwhelming scientific consensus that autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder with genetic and environmental factors, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has redirected resources to study discredited claims.
By halting legitimate research on autism and promoting studies based on unfounded theories, such as the debunked vaccine-autism link, the administration is perpetuating a dangerous narrative. This move comes at a time when the country is facing preventable disease outbreaks, like measles, further emphasizing the need for evidence-based decision-making in public health.
Gender Identity and Health
Intersex and gender non-conforming individuals, including transgender and non-binary individuals, have been targeted by the administration’s actions against gender-affirming care. Despite overwhelming evidence supporting the benefits of gender-affirming treatments in improving mental health and well-being, HHS released a report casting doubt on the science behind these practices.
By undermining the established research on gender-affirming care and neglecting the input of medical experts and associations, the administration is jeopardizing the health and safety of vulnerable populations. The decision to bypass external peer review on such a critical issue raises concerns about the integrity of the research process and the potential impact on policy decisions.
Political Agenda Over Scientific Inquiry
The pattern of targeting specific research areas, suppressing dissenting voices, and redirecting research priorities towards political agendas raises alarms about the administration’s commitment to scientific integrity. By co-opting science to fit predetermined conclusions and dismissing evidence-based findings, the administration is straying from the principles of objective inquiry and evidence-based policymaking.
Efforts to curtail research funding, restrict scientific discourse, and manipulate research outcomes for political gain undermine the foundation of scientific inquiry and erode public trust in government decision-making. The urgency to pass the Scientific Integrity (SI) Act, which safeguards the autonomy of federal scientists and research, has never been more critical in light of these developments.
Continued Assault on Federal Science Funding
The relentless assault on federal funding for scientific research programs has been a persistent theme under the Trump administration. Recent layoffs and program closures at HHS, including vital initiatives in women’s health and violence prevention, have disrupted ongoing research efforts and left crucial areas understudied.
Further cuts to funding at agencies like the National Science Foundation (NSF) and restrictions on research topics reflect a troubling trend of stifling scientific inquiry and impeding progress in various fields. The decision to halt research on misinformation and disinformation, crucial for understanding the spread of false information, raises concerns about the administration’s commitment to evidence-based policymaking.
Call to Action
As the assault on science continues, it is imperative for individuals to advocate for scientific integrity and evidence-based decision-making in government. By supporting initiatives like the SI Act, raising awareness about the importance of scientific research, and holding policymakers accountable for their actions, we can help safeguard the integrity of science in public policy.
For actionable steps and resources to support UCS in its mission to defend science in the federal government, refer to the links below:
- Contact your members of Congress to endorse the SI Act and uphold scientific integrity in government decision-making.
- Share and promote UCS’s “Save Science Save Lives” campaign to raise awareness about the importance of evidence-based research.
- Empower federal scientists by providing them with resources to protect their rights and autonomy in conducting research.
By standing together to defend the integrity of science and research, we can ensure that evidence-based decision-making remains a cornerstone of government policy and public health initiatives.
