POLITICO Tech The Republican case against Trump’s research cuts
Jun 5, 2025
Sen. Todd Young, a Republican from Indiana known for advocating research investment in AI and biotechnology, discusses his push against the research funding cuts imposed by President Trump. Young emphasizes the need for a robust national innovation strategy, highlighting a proposed $32 billion annual investment in AI. They also dive into the impact of U.S. visa policies on foreign STEM talent and the ethical dilemmas of restricting research access based on national origin. This tension illustrates the challenges lawmakers face in balancing party loyalty with advancing technology.
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Episode notes
AI Funding Roadmap Relevance
- The AI roadmap calling for $32 billion a year in funding remains highly relevant and actionable.
- Restoring R&D provisions in the tax code is critical as private sector leads most research development.
Public Research Drives Innovation
- Cuts to federal research funding will eventually slow innovation in AI and biotech.
- The US model relies on public research at universities and labs, feeding innovation that the private sector scales.
Boost and Optimize Public Research
- Double public research funding consistent with Chips and Science Act vision.
- Address waste and entitlement in research to rebuild support and reinvest savings in national research.