Donald Trump Set to Begin Second Term as President
On Monday, January 20, Donald Trump will be sworn in as President of the United States—for a second time.
Despite the challenges faced during the previous Trump administration, including over 200 attacks on science, the upcoming term does not promise any improvement. The administration’s agenda seems set to prioritize the interests of the wealthy and powerful, potentially leading to further erosion of scientific integrity and environmental protections.
Anticipated Abuses of Power
As we brace ourselves for the incoming administration, we are prepared for a range of potential abuses of power:
- Reversal of gains made in scientific integrity, climate action, and investments in marginalized communities through executive orders
- Expansion of fossil fuel development and weakening of federal scientific infrastructure
- Rollbacks of science-based regulations affecting public health and marginalized communities
- Favoritism towards fossil fuel companies to expedite energy projects at the expense of the environment
- Corruption leading to special treatment for politically-favored corporate interests
- Appointment of individuals who may undermine the mission of the agencies they lead
To counter these threats, we have launched the “Save Science, Save Lives” campaign to mobilize the scientific community and supporters of evidence-based policymaking. Our goal is to protect data, prevent the suppression of evidence, and ensure that scientists can continue their work without interference.
Expected Tactics
Based on past experiences, we anticipate the following tactics from the administration:
Attack or Silence Scientists
The previous administration targeted individual scientists and scientific advisory committees, hindering their work and suppressing their findings. Measures like Schedule F to remove civil service protections were attempted but later reversed. The incoming administration may revive such tactics to control the narrative and silence dissenting voices.
Hide the Truth
Efforts to manipulate, edit, or suppress scientific research were rampant in the previous administration. Data on issues like vehicle emissions, chemical safety, and public health were often altered to fit political agendas. We expect similar attempts to conceal facts and mislead the public in the upcoming term.
Industry Influence
The fossil fuel industry wielded significant influence in the previous administration, leading to multiple rollbacks of environmental regulations. Industry insiders were appointed to key positions overseeing their former clients, resulting in policies that favored profit over public safety.
We anticipate further industry interference in decision-making processes, potentially compromising the well-being of communities and the environment.
Data Suppression
Stopping the collection of inconvenient data was a common strategy employed by the previous administration. Vital information on emissions, safety standards, and public health risks was often overlooked or disregarded. We foresee similar attempts to limit data collection and prevent evidence-based policymaking.
Climate Research Under Threat
Climate science was a primary target of the previous administration, with efforts to undermine research and withdraw from international agreements. Climate-related studies and initiatives were defunded or obstructed, hindering progress towards addressing the climate crisis.
Looking Ahead
Despite the challenges ahead, we are prepared to defend science, uphold scientific integrity, and protect the public’s right to information. Through initiatives like the “Save Science, Save Lives” campaign, we aim to mobilize support, hold key nominees accountable, and advocate for evidence-based decision making.
By joining our campaign and staying informed, you can help us safeguard science, promote transparency, and ensure that the federal government’s scientific work remains independent and reliable.
Together, we can overcome the obstacles posed by the upcoming administration and uphold the values of science and democracy.
