Weather Research in the Crosshairs: A Shift in Science Policy

The Trump administration has set its sights on a major change in the world of weather and climate research. The National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) in Colorado might soon see a big shake-up. Russ Vought, the head of the Office of Management and Budget, shared this news on X. He said the National Science Foundation is planning to break up NCAR. Vought called the center a "big source of climate alarmism. " He also mentioned that important work, like weather research, will be moved to other places. This move is part of a bigger push by the Trump administration. They want to limit what they see as taxpayer-funded advocacy. Critics argue that NCAR is a top-notch research hub. It has been around since 1960. Scientists from all over the world use its resources. But the administration sees things differently. They believe the center has strayed from its original mission. They argue that it now focuses more on pushing a political agenda.Democrats and scientists are not happy about this decision. They say it will hurt research and public safety. Colorado's governor, Jared Polis, warned that NCAR's data is crucial. It helps prepare for disasters like fires and floods. Antonio Busalacchi, the head of UCAR, which manages NCAR, also spoke out. He said dismantling NCAR would slow down the nation's ability to handle severe weather and natural disasters. This isn't the only change in climate research. Earlier this year, the administration proposed cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's research arm. Critics said these cuts would harm weather forecasting. The administration insists that vital NCAR functions won't be eliminated. Instead, they will be relocated. This sets the stage for a big debate. Who decides what counts as science and what counts as advocacy?