Several weeks ago one of my physicians — a professional who in the past has always kept conversations focused on the medical issue at hand — opened up. He noted that Trump’s cuts in research funding would be detrimental to a University of Utah program that was a key component of his own education. He also expressed deep concerns for the future of his children.
In a recent letter, University of Utah researcher Zlatan Akšamija stated that the Trump administration’s funding cuts “would do irreparable harm to our nation, lead to labs shutting down, and cost far more in the future when we are forced to catch up with other countries. To keep Utah’s economy strong, we need…robust, sustained federal funding for scientific research.”
Akšamija also cited a study by economists at the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. That study concluded: Since World War II, “investments in scientific research and development have provided impressive returns of 150% to 300%.”
Those investments are not merely economically sound. They have also resulted in scientific breakthroughs that have promoted the health and well-being of the entire citizenry.
The Trump administration inherited a flock of geese that produced golden eggs, but the administration, Republican congressional officials, and Elon Musk’s team of unartful DOGERs are intent on slaughtering that flock by promoting penny-wise and dollar-foolish pseudo-efficiencies.
A basic principle of child rearing also applies in politics. Children become responsible only if held accountable. Elected officials become responsible only if held accountable at the ballot box.
Inform your Republican senators and representatives that if they are complicit in this anti-research slaughter, you will hold them personally accountable for their disservice to dedicated scientists, to the broader public, and to the American economy.
Andrew Bjelland, Salt Lake City
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