Full Breakdown
Trump Administration Proposes Dismantling National Center for Atmospheric Research
12/30/2025, 10:06:45 PM
Overview of the Proposal
The Trump administration has announced plans to dismantle the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) in Boulder, Colorado, a leading institution in atmospheric science. Russell Vought, director of the Office of Management and Budget, characterized NCAR as “one of the largest sources of climate alarmism in the country,” framing the decision as part of a broader effort to redirect federal resources. This proposal has raised significant concerns among scientists and policymakers regarding its implications for climate and weather research.
Importance of NCAR
Founded in 1960, NCAR has been pivotal in advancing weather and climate science, employing over 800 staff and housing critical infrastructure, including supercomputers and research aircraft. Experts like Kim Cobb, a climate scientist, emphasize that NCAR's contributions are vital for public safety and economic planning. Matthew Cappucci, a senior meteorologist, highlighted NCAR's role in developing essential meteorological tools, such as dropsondes used in hurricane research.
Targeting Climate Research
The administration's focus appears to be specifically on the climate research aspect of NCAR’s work. Cobb noted that the current year is projected to be among the warmest on record, underscoring the necessity of NCAR's research in understanding climate-related risks. Critics argue that the dismantling of NCAR fits a troubling trend of politicizing science, with Cappucci asserting that scientific findings should not be influenced by political ideologies.
Implications for Science and Public Safety
Experts warn that dismantling NCAR could have dire consequences for both scientific advancement and public safety. Cobb expressed concern that once NCAR is broken up, reassembling its capabilities would be challenging. Cappucci echoed this sentiment, recalling previous government missteps that led to a loss of critical forecasting expertise.
Congressional and Institutional Reactions
The proposal has elicited strong opposition from various stakeholders. Antonio Busalacchi, president of the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR), expressed surprise at the announcement, noting that it was communicated vaguely. A bipartisan group of over 70 members of Congress has drafted a letter opposing the dismantling, emphasizing NCAR's status as a "world-class research center" and the potential negative impacts on U.S. competitiveness in atmospheric science.
Funding Concerns
The White House's fiscal year 2026 budget proposal included a significant 40% cut to NCAR's funding, raising alarms about the institution's future. Lawmakers like Rep. Joe Neguse and Sen. Michael Bennet have publicly stated that dismantling NCAR would be "dangerous" and "reckless," urging for sustained funding to maintain its operations.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Once you break something like this, it’s really going to be hard to put it back together again.” — Kim Cobb, Climate Scientist
- “Truth be told, no. The atmosphere does not possess a voter registration card. I think it’s important to remember that scientists do science.” — Matthew Cappucci, Senior Meteorologist
- “Any attempt to dismantle this institution is dangerous, reckless and would ultimately put the United States at a very deep competitive disadvantage,” — Rep. Joe Neguse, D-Colo.
Conclusion
The future of NCAR remains uncertain as the Trump administration moves forward with its proposal. The scientific community and lawmakers are voicing serious concerns about the potential ramifications for atmospheric research and public safety, highlighting the critical role NCAR plays in understanding and addressing climate-related challenges.
