Sen. Ted Cruz Targets NSF Grants, Calling Key Scientific Research “Woke” and Ideological

Sen. Ted Cruz has labeled over 3,400 National Science Foundation (NSF) grants as “woke DEI” research, claiming they promote ideological agendas instead of legitimate science. His report suggests that more than $2 billion of the NSF’s $9 billion budget has been used for projects advancing “neo-Marxist class warfare propaganda.” The flagged grants include research on self-driving vehicles, cancer treatments, military service and STEM participation, and even a middle school program helping students experience a solar eclipse. Scientists and researchers have expressed frustration and concern, arguing that the accusations misrepresent their work and threaten U.S. scientific leadership. The NSF has long required grant applicants to outline how their research will broaden participation in science, a mandate that has existed since the 1990s. The Trump administration’s crackdown on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives has led to fears that funding for critical research could be revoked. Scientists warn that these actions could stifle innovation and limit progress in areas such as quantum computing, medical treatments, and environmental research. Despite these concerns, Cruz’s office has not responded to requests for comment.

Source: NPR