AFT and AAUP Leaders Oppose Trump Administration's Research Funding Shift

July 23, 2026 October 5, 2026

Editorial Staff

WASHINGTON

AFT President Randi Weingarten and American Association of University Professors President Todd Wolfson have expressed their opposition to a recent proposal by the Trump administration that aims to change the federal funding structure for research in the United States.

In a joint statement, Weingarten and Wolfson highlighted the widespread public disapproval of the proposal, noting that hundreds of thousands of people have voiced their concerns through public comments. The proposal seeks to redirect funding away from universities and towards artificial intelligence and private companies.

The statement raised significant concerns about the future of publicly funded science, suggesting that the plan could jeopardize the health and safety of Americans and does not align with public interests. "This plan raises profound concerns about the future of publicly funded science. It does nothing to make anyone healthier or safer, and it isn’t what Americans want," they stated.

Weingarten and Wolfson emphasized the importance of maintaining scientific independence, arguing that research priorities should be determined by scientific expertise, peer review, and transparency, rather than political or commercial influences. They stressed, "The United States leads the world in research because generations of scientists have been free to pursue difficult questions, challenge conventional wisdom, collaborate openly and publish their findings—without political interference."

The leaders of the educational organizations advocated for continued public investment in research to ensure it benefits the public. They spoke about the necessity of supporting the research infrastructure and the individuals who contribute to scientific advancements. They stated, "Public investment in research should continue to produce public benefit. That means sustaining the universities, laboratories, hospitals and research infrastructure that make discovery possible."

Regarding the role of artificial intelligence in research, Weingarten and Wolfson acknowledged its potential but cautioned against using it as a means to centralize control over scientific endeavors. They remarked, "AI will undoubtedly transform research, and it should be developed and deployed responsibly to expand scientific discovery. But AI must remain a tool that serves researchers and the public—not a justification for concentrating power over scientific priorities or for diminishing human judgment, transparency and accountability."

The statement concluded with a call to action for Congress, research institutions, and the public to uphold a research system that remains independent and accountable. "This is a defining moment for American science," they observed. They expressed their readiness to collaborate with policymakers to protect the principles underpinning American research.