Full Breakdown
Trump Administration Dismisses Entire National Science Board, Raising Governance Concerns
4/29/2026, 4:30:40 AM
Board Dismissal
On 24 April 2026 the White House office emailed all NSB members that their positions were terminated effective immediately. No reason was given.
Background
The NSB, created by the 1950 NSF Act, advises president and Congress on science policy, sets NSF policy, and approves grants. The NSF has a 2025 budget of $8-9 billion.
Key Figures
Dismissed members included Victor R. McCrary (Catholic University of America), Aaron Dominguez, Roger Beachy (Washington University), Keivan Stassun (Vanderbilt), Yolanda Gil (USC) and chemist Willie May. They called the move disappointing and warned of lost independence.
Timeline & Immediate Context
The board had planned a May 5 meeting and a report on U.S. scientific competitiveness. The administration also proposes a 55 % NSF budget cut for FY 2027.
Data and Funding Overview
In 2025 the NSF funded 1,600 grants worth nearly $1 billion and 11,000 grants annually across 1,900 institutions. Since then the agency halted 1,600 grants and cut roughly one-third of its workforce.
Potential Impact on Science Governance
Removing the NSB eliminates the NSF’s primary advisory body, potentially easing large budget cuts and altering grant-making. Critics say this threatens long-term guidance and U.S. leadership in fundamental research.
Official Statements & Responses
A White House spokesperson cited the 2021 *U.S. v. Arthrex* decision as raising questions about non-Senate-confirmed appointees and pledged to work with Congress to amend it. The NSF said its work continues uninterrupted.
Criticism & Opposition
House Science Committee member Zoe Lofgren called the firings “the latest stupid move” harming science and innovation. Senate Commerce Committee member Maria Cantwell called it “a dangerous attack” on institutions driving innovation. The AAAS and AAU also condemned the action.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources report the board size as 22, 24 or 25 members at dismissal. No official explanation has been given, and replacement appointments remain unannounced.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The termination email was brief and to the point, with a ‘thank you for your service,'” — Roger Beachy, emeritus biology professor.
- “this is the latest stupid move made by a president who continues to harm science and American innovation.” — Zoe Lofgren, ranking member, House Science Committee.
- “‘I am deeply disappointed, though I cannot say I am entirely surprised,’ says May, who is also a recent past president of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.” — Willie May, chemist and former NSB member.
What's Next
Congress will markup FY 2027 NSF appropriations in late April, reviewing the 55 % cut proposal. The Senate has not confirmed nominee Jim O’Neill as NSF director, and no NSB replacements have been announced.
