Trump’s Research Cuts Spark National Day of Action
The academic community has joined forces against President Donald Trump’s proposed cuts to facilities and administrative costs for federally funded research projects. In response, a coalition of academic unions has called for a nationwide protest on Wednesday, February 19th, designated as the National Day of Action.
Concerns Over Research Impact
Trump’s directive to cap indirect costs at 15% has drawn bipartisan criticism. Critics argue that the spending limit will severely impair the United States’ world-renowned research apparatus. The directive not only reduces funding but also imposes new restrictions and censorship on critical research, potentially hindering the development of new treatments and cures.
Street Protests Escalate
Initially confined to online and media criticism, the backlash against the research cuts has now spilled over into street protests. On Friday, demonstrators gathered outside the Health and Human Services (HHS) building, chanting and locking arms in front of the entrance. The National Day of Action represents a further escalation of these protests.
National Day of Action
Academic unions from across the country are mobilizing for the National Day of Action. Union members from Johns Hopkins, George Washington University, and the University of Maryland are among those expected to participate. Protests are scheduled at universities and HHS buildings nationwide, including Rutgers, the University of Washington, and the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Call for Congressional Pressure
Organizers are also encouraging demonstrators to protest outside congressional offices and public meetings where legislators are present. A toolkit circulated by the organizers provides messaging prompts and urges protesters to document the events with photographs and videos.
Police Response
The Metropolitan Police Department has indicated that it will uphold First Amendment rights while ensuring public safety. While no specific threats have been reported, the department has declined to provide details on security measures.
Legal Challenges
A federal judge has issued a temporary restraining order against Trump’s directive, halting its implementation nationwide. An in-person hearing is scheduled for later this month to determine the legality of the cuts.
Kennedy’s Support for the Cap
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., recently confirmed as HHS secretary, has expressed potential support for Trump’s cap on indirect research costs. He has shared a NIH social media post highlighting potential savings under the new spending limit.
Additional Protests Planned
In addition to the National Day of Action, a Stand Up For Science 2025 protest is planned for early March. A nationwide protest movement is also organizing demonstrations at every major state capital on Presidents Day.
Independent Voters’ Disapproval
A recent survey of independent voters revealed growing disapproval of the Democratic Party’s aggressive attacks on President Trump. This suggests that the public may be receptive to the concerns raised by the academic community regarding the proposed research cuts.
