President Donald Trump’s latest budget proposal has ignited sharp criticism across party lines, as it calls for sweeping cuts to healthcare and scientific research funding. The proposal, unveiled on May 2, recommends slashing non-defense discretionary spending by $163 billion, with healthcare taking one of the biggest hits.
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) would see its budget reduced by more than 26%, dropping by $33.3 billion to $93.8 billion. The National Institutes of Health (NIH), a pillar of American biomedical research, is targeted for a 40% cut—amounting to $18 billion. The plan includes eliminating four NIH institutes and consolidating others.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is also on the chopping block, with nearly half of its budget eliminated. The CDC’s funding would drop by $3.6 billion to $4 billion, with several public health programs merged into a single $300 million block grant.
Public health experts and former officials have warned that the proposed reductions could have dire consequences. Dr. Tom Frieden, former CDC Director, criticized the plan, saying it would “undo decades of progress” and “put lives and the economy at risk.”
The proposal emphasizes reallocating funds toward defense and border security, aligning with Trump’s campaign priorities. However, the sweeping nature of the cuts has drawn skepticism even from within the Republican Party. Senator Susan Collins expressed serious reservations, while Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer called the proposal “heartless” and “disastrous for American families.”
Though unlikely to pass in its current form, the proposal sets the tone for a heated budget battle in Congress. As lawmakers prepare for negotiations, the future of U.S. health and science funding hangs in the balance.
