If ever there was a societal moment of desperate need for large and well-funded teams of scientists, researchers, and other experts to help guide our state and nation in this ever more complex world, it’s now.
Between climate change, mass migration, artificial intelligence, the threat of new pandemics, and an ever-more competitive global economy, the need for top-flight human brain power dedicated to finding common good solutions is acute.
And it’s because of this that the recent slash-and-burn firings and funding cuts imposed by President Trump and Elon Musk are, and will continue to be, so devastating.
Right here in the Triangle we’re already seeing big and hugely destructive cuts at our universities, the EPA and nonprofits like RTI International.
Hundreds of our best and brightest — people who’ve dedicated their careers to public service — are being summarily and wrongfully fired.
The bottom line: The Trump-Musk funding cuts are causing chaos and ruinous destruction. All caring and thinking people should call on leaders in Congress and the courts to stop them.
For NC Newsline, I’m Rob Schofield.
NC Newsline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. NC Newsline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Rob Schofield for questions: info@ncnewsline.com.