OMB Proposal to Give Political Appointees Control Over US Science Grants Draws Backlash

The Trump administration's Office of Management and Budget has put forward a proposal that would grant political appointees significant control over federal science grant funding. The rule could affect funding for major research initiatives, including the search for organic compounds on Mars and the study of early galaxies. Unlike typical OMB proposals, which usually attract fewer than 100 public comments, this rule has generated an unusually large public response. Critics warn the move could fundamentally alter how US scientific research is funded and conducted. The proposal is being seen as part of a broader administration effort to reshape federal science priorities.