Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Trump's Budget Slashes Research Funding by Over 40%

5/7/2025

30 3

Summary

Trump's Budget Cuts

President Trump's budget proposal for fiscal year 2026 raises eyebrows with drastic cuts to U.S. research funding, slashing 40% from the National Institutes of Health and a staggering 55% from the National Science Foundation. This alarming move has ignited a fierce outcry from academic groups, urging Congress to step in and safeguard the future of scientific innovation.

Summary

Trump Halts Funding

In a bold move, President Trump has halted federal funding for gain-of-function research in nations labeled as "of concern," such as China and Iran. This executive order seeks to avert future pandemics amid rising tensions surrounding COVID-19's origins. However, critics warn that this decision could stifle crucial biomedical research and jeopardize public health readiness in the U.S.

History

Historical Context

President Trump's proposed budget cuts for fiscal year 2026 echo historical tensions over federal funding priorities. In the 1970s, President Nixon faced backlash for impounding funds, leading to the 1974 Impoundment Control Act, which restricted presidential spending power. Similarly, current cuts to research funding may provoke Congress to assert its authority, reflecting ongoing debates about the balance of power in budgetary decisions.

1 of 3

Trump's Budget Cuts

President Trump's budget proposal for fiscal year 2026 raises eyebrows with drastic cuts to U.S. research funding, slashing 40% from the National Institutes of Health and a staggering 55% from the National Science Foundation. This alarming move has ignited a fierce outcry from academic groups, urging Congress to step in and safeguard the future of scientific innovation.

1 / 3