Numerous outlets have confirmed that the Trump administration has entirely removed the National Science Board (NSB) members from their positions. This board is responsible for providing guidance to both the president and Congress concerning the National Science Foundation (NSF). The NSF has already been operating with historically low research funding levels and has faced noticeable delays in distributing these funds. The NSF’s contributions have been pivotal, facilitating advancements in technologies like MRIs, cellphones, and even supporting the early development of platforms such as Duolingo.

Zoe Lofgren, the leading Democrat on the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, addressed the situation in a statement:

“This is the latest stupid move made by a president who continues to harm science and American innovation. The NSB is apolitical. It advises the president on the future of NSF. It unfortunately is no surprise a president who has attacked NSF from day one would seek to destroy the board that helps guide the Foundation. Will the president fill the NSB with MAGA loyalists who won’t stand up to him as he hands over our leadership in science to our adversaries? A real bozo the clown move.”