Trump’s Threat to Science: A Plan to Dismantle Federal Expertise
Introduction
Donald Trump’s ambition to reclaim the US presidency in 2024 carries weighty implications for the future of science within the US government. His pledge to “dismantle the deep state” poses a direct threat to the integrity of federal agencies and the scientists who toil within them. This comprehensive article delves into the details of Trump’s plan, its potential ramifications for science, and the ongoing efforts to counter this threat.
Trump’s Plan: Reclassifying Federal Employees
Trump’s plan to “Trump-proof” US science against political meddling involves reclassifying tens of thousands of federal employees, encompassing scientists and other professionals currently shielded by permanent positions. This reclassification, known as Schedule F, would empower the administration to terminate “rogue bureaucrats” perceived as obstructing the political agenda and part of the so-called ‘deep state’. The administration could then appoint replacements aligned with Trump’s political views, irrespective of their scientific or technical expertise.
Impact on Science
This plan poses a grave threat to the integrity of scientific research and evidence-based policymaking within the US government. Scientists and experts warn that Schedule F would undermine agencies’ capacity to provide impartial and accurate scientific advice. It would also engender a chilling effect, dissuading scientists from vocalizing their concerns against policies lacking scientific basis or detrimental to the public.
Biden’s Response and Efforts to Strengthen Scientific Integrity
In response to Trump’s threat, the Biden administration has undertaken steps to fortify scientific integrity rules and safeguard federal workers. These endeavors include:
1. Scientific Integrity Rules:
The Biden administration has proposed updates and expansions to scientific integrity rules across federal agencies. These rules aim to forestall political interference in scientific research and guarantee that decisions are grounded in evidence, not political considerations.
2. Creation of an Expert Panel:
The administration intends to establish an expert panel under the National Science and Technology Council. This panel would scrutinize agency policies, probe alleged violations by political appointees, and proffer recommendations for bolstering scientific integrity.
3. Rule to Reinforce Protections for Federal Workers:
The US Office of Personnel Management has proposed a rule to reinforce protections for federal employees. This rule elucidates when and under what conditions civil servants can be transferred out of a merit-based system into one that permits easier termination of employment.
Challenges and Obstacles
Despite these efforts, substantial challenges persist in countering Trump’s threat to science:
1. Temporary Nature of Agency Policies:
Agency policies, including those geared towards strengthening scientific integrity, are not laws and can be effortlessly reversed by a new administration.
2. Legislative Hurdles:
Proposals to enshrine scientific integrity requirements in federal law face hurdles due to the current gridlock in the US Congress. Passing such legislation would necessitate bipartisan support, which is presently lacking.
3. Overwhelming Cumulative Threat:
The combined threat emanating from the courts, a potential Trump administration, and the erosion of scientific integrity poses a formidable challenge to the role of independent professional and scientific judgment in the government.
Conclusion
Trump’s plan to reclassify federal employees and dismantle scientific expertise within the US government poses a grave threat to evidence-based policymaking and the integrity of scientific research. While the Biden administration has taken steps to strengthen scientific integrity and protect federal workers, these efforts face significant challenges. The future of science in the US government remains uncertain and hinges on the outcome of the upcoming presidential election and the willingness of Congress to enact lasting protections for scientific integrity.
The future of science in the US government is at stake. Contact your elected officials and urge them to support policies that uphold scientific integrity and protect the role of independent scientific advice in policymaking. Join the movement to safeguard science and evidence-based decision-making in our government.