Story perspectives

Trump Fires All 22 National Science Board Members

4/29/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump terminated all 22 National Science Board members, leaving the board empty.
The dismissals came in a two-sentence email asserting the president’s authority.
The White House declined comment.
The National Science Foundation has lost about one-third of its staff, prompting office relocations.
House Science Committee ranking members and scientific societies called the firings a dangerous attack on U.S. innovation, urging restoration.

History

Historical Context

Congress created the National Science Foundation in 1950 when President Harry S. Truman signed the NSF Act, establishing a 24-member National Science Board and an initial $151,000 budget. The board has guided federal non-medical research for decades. On April 25 2026, President Donald Trump abruptly dismissed all 22 members, reviving concerns about bipartisan oversight and funding stability.

1 of 2

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump terminated all 22 National Science Board members, leaving the board empty.
The dismissals came in a two-sentence email asserting the president’s authority.
The White House declined comment.
The National Science Foundation has lost about one-third of its staff, prompting office relocations.
House Science Committee ranking members and scientific societies called the firings a dangerous attack on U.S. innovation, urging restoration.

1 / 2