The Trump administration has proposed a rule change that would give political appointees more control over federal research grants, potentially ending the peer-review system as the gold standard. - The rule, published May 29, would require political appointees to review grants before awards, giving them veto power over projects.
- Critics, including scientists and historians, compare the move to 'late Stalinism' and 'McCarthy era politics.' - The proposal also bans research on diversity, equity, and inclusion and restricts international collaborations. The rule is open for public comment until July 13 and is expected to face legal challenges.