White House Launches Another Assault on Science Funding, Targeting NSF, EPA

image via New Scientist

June 10, 2025, 7:30 PM

• •The Trump administration is attempting to weaken Congress's control over the federal budget and freeze billions of dollars in spending.
• •Russ Vought, the OMB Director, is leading the effort, which includes directing agencies like EPA and NSF to freeze spending on various programs.
• •The administration plans to use spending deferrals, pocket rescissions, and potentially take the issue to the Supreme Court to expand executive power.
• •Critics argue the strategy undermines Congress's constitutional power of the purse and threatens the separation of powers.

The Trump administration is spearheading a new initiative to limit federal spending and weaken Congress's budget authority. Led by OMB Director Russ Vought, the plan involves freezing billions of dollars in spending across multiple agencies, including the EPA and NSF. The administration is employing various strategies, such as spending deferrals and pocket rescissions, potentially challenging the Impoundment Control Act. Critics view these actions as a threat to the Constitution's separation of powers and Congress's control over federal spending, with fears that the administration aims to expand executive power.

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