By Matt Underwood Trump Is Shutting Down the War On Cancer. It’s hard to ignore the pattern. Actions speak louder than words, and the actions of the Trump administration paint a disturbing picture when it comes to cancer research. We’re not talking about subtle shifts in policy; we’re talking about a targeted dismantling of critical infrastructure meant to combat this devastating disease. The scale of the cuts, the personnel changes, and the overall rhetoric create a very clear narrative: Trump is, in effect, shutting down the war on cancer.
The evidence is stark. The administration has slashed hundreds of millions of dollars in cancer-related research grants, claiming these were part of D.E.I. initiatives. It seems that efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in research are seen as a problem, not a benefit. Payments for ongoing research have been suspended or delayed, creating financial strain and uncertainty for scientists and institutions. The administration is also reducing the government’s financial contribution to federally funded cancer-research labs. On top of all this, hundreds of government employees who were essential to the cancer-research system have been let go. These are the people who ensure new discoveries make their way to clinicians and, ultimately, to patients. The proposed budget for the National Cancer Institute, the very heart of the nation’s cancer research, is facing a devastating cut of over 37%. The magnitude of these cuts takes us back to over 30 years ago, in terms of federal funding for cancer research.
The consequences of these actions are far-reaching, and frankly, heartbreaking. It’s not just about dollars and cents; it’s about real people and real lives. The loss of jobs and the disruption of careers in biomedical research are causing immense damage that is, in many cases, irreversible. This is not just a slowdown; it’s an actively destructive campaign. It’s hard not to see these moves as a deliberate attempt to dismantle a critical system that is designed to save lives.
And then you have the other thing. Consider Trump’s perceived political motivations. It appears to be a cynical calculation that involves attacking what is most important to his perceived political enemies. It’s the same strategy we’ve seen before, where he’s willing to do things he wouldn’t otherwise care about, just to “own the libs.” This is devastating for anyone who suffers from the disease.
Adding to the frustration is a general sense of disbelief: Why would anyone want to undermine cancer research? What’s the motive? Is it spite, greed, or a combination of both? It’s hard to imagine a justification.
There are also concerns that these decisions are part of a larger strategy to concede the future of key sectors such as healthcare and research to other countries, specifically China. This undermines America’s standing as a leader in medical innovation and leaves us vulnerable in the long run.
Moreover, the timing couldn’t be worse. Many scientists are on the cusp of breakthroughs, and people are holding out hope for the new therapies and treatments. Instead of accelerating progress, the administration appears to be intentionally slowing it down, and in some cases, completely stopping it.
The question that many are asking is, “Why?” The motivation seems to be a desire to undo anything associated with Biden, who was actively involved in the fight against cancer. It’s a petty move, and it’s costing us dearly.
Fortunately, there are efforts to counteract these cuts. Pressure from scientists and science organizations on Congress seems to be having some effect. The Senate Appropriations Committee has so far denied the proposed budget cuts for the NIH. However, the damage is already done, and the future of American biomedical research is hanging in the balance.
The big question that remains: What will happen? The answer is in the hands of lawmakers, scientists, and the public. It’s up to them to push back against these destructive policies and ensure that the war on cancer continues with the resources and support it needs. If not, we’re all the losers.