The Trump administration is encountering significant opposition to its proposal to exert greater control over federal grants, with thousands of academics, city leaders, and congressional lawmakers urging a reconsideration.

The proposed policy, detailed in a leaked memo, would require federal agencies to submit grant applications for review by political appointees before they are awarded. Critics argue this could politicize the scientific research process and hinder important work.

Organizations like the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the Association of American Universities have voiced strong concerns. They contend that such a review process could delay or block critical research funding, potentially impacting advancements in fields ranging from public health to national security. The pushback highlights a deep-seated worry that political considerations might override scientific merit in grant allocation.

Congressional leaders, including Senator Lamar Alexander, have also expressed reservations, questioning the necessity and potential negative consequences of the proposed oversight. The administration has yet to formally respond to the widespread criticism, leaving many in the scientific and academic communities anxious about the future of federal research funding.