Scientists Rally Congress to Defend Science Against Trump Administration’s Agenda
Over 25,000 scientists and 28 organizations have petitioned Congress to protect science-based policies from political interference. The Union of Concerned Scientists warns that the incoming Trump administration’s agenda could undermine public health, climate action, and federal research integrity.
By Chuck Beaton | DayMark News
The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS), supported by over 25,000 scientists and science advocates as well as 28 allied organizations, issued a resounding call to Congress to defend scientific integrity amidst the incoming presidential administration's anticipated agenda. The coalition’s petition, sent to every member of Congress, urged lawmakers to safeguard science-based policymaking and resist efforts to undermine federal research and public health protections.
In a simultaneous move, 28 organizations released an open letter addressed to 99 U.S. Senators. The letter implored them to vet nominees for federal agency leadership rigorously, ensuring that only qualified individuals free from conflicts of interest and aligned with evidence-based practices assume critical roles.
The coordinated efforts reflect widespread concern among scientists and advocates over President-elect Donald Trump’s stated plans to slash funding for scientific agencies, dismiss established research, and roll back environmental and public health protections.
The UCS, an organization renowned for championing science-driven policy, warned of a troubling trajectory for the next four years. Dr. Jennifer Jones, director of UCS’s Center for Science and Democracy, highlighted the stakes: “Rolling back science-based policies and silencing scientists jeopardizes public health, economic stability, and our national security. The broad consensus among scientists underscores the urgency to protect independent science in government decision-making.”
The stakes are not merely academic. During Trump’s first administration, UCS documented over 200 instances of what they termed “attacks on science,” including the suppression of climate research and the use of questionable science to justify public health rollbacks. One notable example was the administration’s justification for limiting access to birth control, citing disputed research. Other actions involved halting studies on chemical impacts on children and scaling back protections against air and water pollutants known to cause severe health risks, such as lung damage and birth defects.
The Biden administration had worked to reverse many of these measures, but the incoming president’s agenda threatens to undo that progress. President-elect Trump has openly pledged to dismantle key scientific agencies and weaken the safeguards that protect federal scientists from political interference.
The UCS petition emphasizes the critical role of science in government functions, from ensuring clean air and water to assessing medicine safety and disaster recovery. The accompanying letter from allied organizations amplifies this message, calling on the Senate to confirm only those nominees who accept established science and demonstrate a commitment to impartial, evidence-based governance.
“The integrity of federal research affects every American,” noted Jones. “Protecting science means protecting people—full stop.”
The UCS’s call to action extends beyond Congress, urging policymakers and the public to stand together against anti-science rhetoric and policy. The coalition stressed the importance of prioritizing climate action, investing in research, and upholding protections for vulnerable communities.
The response from Congress remains uncertain, but early indications suggest an uphill battle. Political polarization has already cast a shadow over federal scientific efforts. Senate confirmation hearings, often contentious in recent years, may become the first battleground in the fight to maintain science-driven leadership in federal agencies.
Despite the challenges, the UCS remains steadfast. “The collaboration of 99 organizations and over 25,000 voices demonstrates the sheer magnitude of support for science in governance,” said Jones. “We must remind lawmakers that science is not a partisan issue—it is the foundation of sound policymaking.”
For a country grappling with pressing challenges—from climate change to public health crises—the stakes have never been higher. As the battle for science’s role in government unfolds, one thing remains clear: the Union of Concerned Scientists and its allies are determined to ensure that facts, not politics, guide America’s future.
This article is licensed under Creative Commons (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0), and you are free to share and republish under the terms of the license.
At DayMark News, we are committed to exposing the rise of authoritarianism and its threat to democracy. In a time when disinformation spreads like wildfire and democratic institutions face relentless attacks, we need your support to keep the fight alive.
Investigative journalism is our weapon against authoritarian ideologies. We delve deep to uncover the truths others would rather keep hidden, while providing actionable resources to empower individuals like you to defend our democracy.
We believe in transparency, integrity, and the power of a well-informed public. But maintaining a platform dedicated to fearless reporting and mobilization requires resources. We refuse to bow to corporate interests or compromise our mission. That's why we turn to you — our community.
Every donation, big or small, helps us continue our work. With your support, we can produce the in-depth analyses, breaking news, and educational tools needed to resist the rise of extremist movements and protect democratic values for future generations.
This fight belongs to all of us. Together, we can ensure that democracy not only survives but thrives. Please consider making a contribution today to keep DayMark News strong and independent.
Donate Now: Because Democracy Can't Defend Itself.
Donate
