The White House Fires All 22 Members of the National Science Board
In a sweeping executive action, the White House terminated all 22 seated members of the National Science Board (NSB) on Friday, effective immediately. The board oversees the National Science Foundation (NSF), a federal agency that funds basic scientific research across the United States.
Background
The National Science Board was established by the National Science Foundation Act of 1950. Members serve six-year terms and do not require Senate confirmation. The board’s statutory duties include:
- Advising Congress and the President on NSF activities
- Identifying issues critical to the NSF’s future
- Submitting the NSF budget
- Approving programs and awards
The board was designed to safeguard long-term investments that may not pay off for a generation. — Keivan Stassun, fired board member
Rationale for Dismissal
In a statement, the White House cited a 2021 Supreme Court case (U.S. v. Arthrex) that raised constitutional questions about whether non-Senate-confirmed appointees can exercise the authorities Congress granted to the board. The White House stated it looks forward to working with Congress to update the relevant statute.
Reactions
Willie May, a fired board member from Morgan State University, expressed disappointment and noted a pattern of dismantling scientific advisory infrastructure.
Roger Beachy, a fired board member from Washington University, expressed concern that the board could become partisan and prioritize short-term administration goals over basic research.
Keivan Stassun, a fired board member, stated the board was designed to safeguard long-term investments that may not pay off for a generation.
This is an attack on science. It harms science and American innovation. — Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.)
Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.) called the move an "attack on science" and stated it harms science and American innovation. She characterized the board as apolitical.
Rep. Brian Babin (R-Texas) countered that every president expects advisors to serve consistently with executive and legislative priorities.
Gennady Samorodnitsky of Cornell University said it is the government's task to decide what is best for society.
Additional Context
The Trump administration has sought deep cuts to the NSF, including a preliminary 2026 budget request to cut $4.7 billion—more than half the agency's $9 billion budget—and rescission of thousands of approved grants.
Legal scholars expressed confusion over the White House’s application of the Arthrex decision, noting the board’s unique statutory structure and historical precedent.