Trump Executive Order Gives Politicians Control Over All Federal Grants, Alarming Researchers

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NEW YORK (AP) — An executive order signed by President Donald Trump aims to give political appointees power over the billions of dollars of grants that are awarded by federal agencies. The order signed Thursday requires agencies to appoint individuals responsible for reviewing federal funding opportunities and grants. Scientists say the order will undermine America’s scientific engine by placing control over federal research funds in the hands of people who are influenced by politics and lack relevant expertise. The Trump administration said these changes are part of an effort to streamline grantmaking.

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