Whistleblower scientists outline Trump’s plan to politicize and dismantle NSF

In a bold move, nearly 150 staff members of the National Science Foundation (NSF) submitted an urgent letter to Congress on Tuesday, raising alarms about what they describe as the Trump administration's "politically motivated and legally questionable" actions that jeopardize the future of this esteemed scientific agency. Most of the signatories chose to remain anonymous, with only Jesus Soriano, the head of their local union, publicly identifying himself. The letter, directed to Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.), who serves as the ranking member of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, urged Congress to take immediate action against drastic budget cuts, widespread layoffs, and the termination of research grants. It also highlighted concerns over the withholding of billions in allocated funds and alleged coerced resignations. Alarmingly, the letter disclosed a troubling trend: a "covert and ideologically driven secondary review process" led by unqualified political appointees that threatens to disrupt the NSF's historically rigorous, merit-based evaluation system. Soriano further emphasized that "scientists, program officers, and staff" have been unfairly targeted for performing their roles with integrity. He warned of a larger agenda aimed at dismantling institutional protections, politicizing research funding, and undermining the scientific process altogether. At a press conference held with Lofgren on Wednesday, AFGE National President Everett Kelley expressed strong support for the NSF employees, reminding legislators that their duty to oversee the executive branch is crucial. Lofgren committed to doing everything in her power to safeguard the NSF and the broader scientific community. She also vowed to protect Soriano from potential retaliation, as some federal employees, including those at the NSF, have reported facing retaliation for speaking out. Lofgren criticized the Trump administration's actions, describing them as a source of "deep shame" that has cultivated a climate of fear within the agency, asserting that all the alarming claims in the letter are valid and deserving of serious attention.