Trump Administration Announces Plans to Dismantle National Center for Atmospheric Research

White House Budget Director Labels the Lab “A Source of Climate Alarmism”

In a surprising move, senior officials in the Trump administration have declared their intention to shut down the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR). The decision was announced by Russell Vought, the White House budget director, who described the institution as a hub of “climate alarmism” and argued that its research no longer aligns with the administration’s priorities.

NCAR, a federally funded research facility based in Boulder, Colorado, has long been a cornerstone of atmospheric science, providing critical data on weather patterns, climate change, and environmental health. The center collaborates with universities, government agencies, and private sector partners to advance scientific understanding and inform policy decisions.

Administration’s Rationale

According to Vought, the laboratory’s focus on climate change mitigation and its public communication of “doom‑laden” forecasts have contributed to a narrative that the administration deems counterproductive. “We must redirect federal resources toward initiatives that foster economic growth and energy independence, not perpetuate fear,” Vought said during a briefing.

Reaction from the Scientific Community

Scientists and research institutions across the country have expressed alarm at the proposed dismantling. Dr. Maria Hernandez, a senior climatologist at NCAR, warned that “the loss of this facility would cripple our ability to monitor atmospheric processes, predict extreme weather events, and develop resilient infrastructure.” Many researchers fear that the decision could set a precedent for further cuts to scientific programs.

Potential Impacts

If the administration proceeds, the shutdown could affect:

• Ongoing climate and weather research projects.
• Employment for hundreds of scientists, engineers, and support staff.
• Data availability for federal agencies such as NOAA and the EPA.
• International collaborations that rely on NCAR’s expertise and resources.

Next Steps

The White House has indicated that a detailed plan will be released within the next 30 days, outlining the timeline and logistical considerations for the closure. Meanwhile, Congress is expected to hold hearings to examine the broader implications of reducing federal support for scientific research.