Trump Administration Seeks More Political Control Over Federal Science Grants
On May 29, 2026, the Office of Management and Budget proposed a rule to require political appointees to review and sign off on federal research grants, potentially letting the Trump administration block scientifically vetted projects.[1]
It would give political appointees final approval authority after peer review rather than leaving decisions to career experts.[1] Scientists and advocacy groups say that could let officials block projects in fields including public health and climate science.[1]
On May 29, 2026, OMB published the proposed rule in the Federal Register changing how research grants are approved.[1] Critics say the change would politicize scientific funding and undermine peer review.[1]
The proposal prompted immediate debate over the future of federal science funding.[1]
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📌 Key Facts
- On May 29, 2026, the Office of Management and Budget published a proposed rule in the Federal Register changing how research grants are approved.
- The rule would require political appointees, not just career experts, to review and sign off on federal research grants after peer review.
- Scientists and advocacy groups say the change would allow administration officials to block projects despite positive peer review, affecting major fields from public health to climate science.
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