The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS), established by MIT researchers in 1969 to protect science from government interference, argues that American science faces significant threats. UCS highlights the exclusion of scientists and the public from decision-making, and the dissolution of key advisory committees. They assert that the administration is undermining the scientific method by selectively valuing certain scientific findings over others.
Public health has particularly suffered due to these attacks. The Trump administration appointed ideologically driven leaders in medical agencies, disrupting decades of advancements in disease prevention. At the NIH, budget cuts have led to the termination of over 5,400 projects, including critical research on various diseases. The work environment within NIH has been described as chaotic.
In April 2025, Trump’s executive order aimed at “Make America Healthy Again” appointed anti-vaccine activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as head of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). This resulted in significant leadership changes at the CDC and widespread staff layoffs. Under Kennedy, important divisions focused on vaccine hesitancy and long COVID were dismantled, worsening public health initiatives.
With significant consequences, Kennedy’s leadership has faced severe outbreaks of measles, leading to child fatalities. Additionally, the restructured vaccine committee was filled with Kennedy loyalists who oppose vaccinations, reversing CDC recommendations based on unfounded fears.
