Story perspectives

OMB Rule Lets Politicians Override Peer Review, Bans DEI Research

6/6/2026

Left

OMB Bans DEI

A proposed rule would let political appointees replace peer review and ban diversity, equity and inclusion research.
The Office of Management and Budget issued the rule after thousands of scientists and medical societies submitted comments urging review.
Researchers warn the rule could halt addiction studies addressing social determinants, increasing overdose deaths.
Climate experts say the rule threatens weather and climate funding, jeopardizing safety and U.S. competitiveness.

Right

GLP-1 Ghostfat

Rapid weight loss from GLP-1 drugs can produce a “ghost fat” illusion, leaving patients perceiving themselves as larger despite shrinkage.
Ansonia’s June 1 budget referendum in Connecticut faced criticism for minimal official public outreach.
Studies indicate up to two-thirds of post-bariatric patients still view themselves as obese.
Experts advise cognitive-behavior therapy, mindfulness and mirror practice to help patients adjust body perception.

Center

Critics Decry Referendum

Critics said the June 1 referendum received little public outreach and ignored broad community input.
About 985 voters (8.5% turnout) approved the school budget and rejected the city budget on June 1.
Residents reported no signage, robocalls or website notices and learned of the vote on Facebook.
City officials noted the charter does not require newspaper notices and the budget was adopted May 27.

Blindspot

Left coverage emphasized the OMB proposal to let political appointees replace peer review and ban DEI research, highlighting its potential impact on scientific studies.
Right coverage did not include any mention of the OMB proposal or its consequences for research and climate funding.

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OMB Bans DEI

A proposed rule would let political appointees replace peer review and ban diversity, equity and inclusion research.
The Office of Management and Budget issued the rule after thousands of scientists and medical societies submitted comments urging review.
Researchers warn the rule could halt addiction studies addressing social determinants, increasing overdose deaths.
Climate experts say the rule threatens weather and climate funding, jeopardizing safety and U.S. competitiveness.

1 / 4