Science is at the core of a healthy democracy. But for years, presidential administrations have, in differing ways, sidelined scientific evidence and attacked scientific integrity.
Due to the large number of attacks on science we’re seeing from the second Trump administration, we are currently providing regular summaries of documented attacks.
- In the Dark: Trump Administration Continues to Cancel and Suppress Information (October 20, 2025)
- As Scientists Raise the Alarm, Trump Administration Attacks Continue (September 15, 2025)
- From the Courtroom to the Internet, the Fight Over Federal Science Is On (July 24, 2025)
- Science Under Fire in Washington (June 12, 2025)
- The State of Science at 100 Days: Co-Opted, Hindered, and Undermined (May 8, 2025)
- A Backward March: Another Month of Attacks on Federal Science (April 2, 2025)
- A Hundred Attacks and Counting: What Happened to Federal Science in February (March 12, 2025)
- How Science Has Fared in the First Two Weeks of the New Trump Administration (January 30, 2025)
Below is the list of documented attacks on science that occurred under the four previous administrations. They include disappearing data, silenced scientists, suppressed studies, and other assaults on science-based policy. More information on these attacks can be found in our peer-reviewed study and in our data repository.
Attacks on science
Misrepresenting Scientific Knowledge on Trumpeter Swans
The director of the U.S. FWS relied on a scientifically flawed report that lacked outside peer review and seriously misrepresented another study in determining that a population of trumpeter swans.
Science Regarding Endangered Species Act Manipulated
A wide array of scientists, government officials, and environmental groups has charged that the George W. Bush administration is engaged in a systematic attempt to weaken the Endangered Species Act.
White House Alters EPA Scientific Document on Climate Change
In June 2003, the White House sought to override EPA scientists' judgment on climate change.
Scientific Plan On Forest Management Altered
In an incident involving the management of national forests, the George W. Bush administration created a "review team" made up of predominantly nonscientists.
Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Proposed Changes to "Peer Review"
Government-wide rule changes proposed by the White House or Congress could alter the way the federal government gathers and reviews scientific and technical information.
National Nuclear Security Administration Panel Dismissed
The National Nuclear Security Administration was summarily abolished in June 2003.
Multiple Air Pollutants Information Suppressed
The EPA evaluated a proposal from Senators, but long withheld important results on the costs and benefits of the alternative bill from the senators.
Agricultural Brochure Cancelled Due to Climate Implications
The NRCS of the USDA sought to reprint a brochure about carbon sequestration in the soil, and techniques farmers could use to reduce emissions of heat trapping gases. The project however, was scrapped.
Scientific Knowledge on HIV/AIDS Prevention Distorted
Fact-based information on the CDC's website was altered to raise scientifically questionable doubt about the efficacy of condoms in preventing the spread of HIV/AIDS.
Distorting Scientific Knowledge on Florida Panthers
FWS agency officials knowingly used flawed science in assessing the endangered Florida panther’s habitat and viability.
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