OMB Grant Control Proposal Draws 90,000 Public Comments

The White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has received 90,000 public comments on its proposed changes to grant-making processes as of July 7, 2026. Scientific organizations and other groups have voiced strong opposition to the proposal, which critics argue would increase political influence over the allocation of federal research funds. The surge in comments indicates significant concern from the academic and scientific communities regarding the potential impact on research independence and funding priorities.

The OMB's proposal aims to provide more oversight and control to political appointees in the grant selection process. Proponents suggest this could align research funding more closely with national priorities. However, opponents fear that such a system could lead to the politicization of science, potentially diverting funds away from critical but less politically favored research areas. This level of public engagement, evidenced by the 90,000 comments, underscores the contentious nature of the proposed policy shift.

Organizations submitting comments have expressed worries about the potential for bias and the erosion of merit-based funding decisions. The sheer volume of feedback suggests a widespread mobilization against the OMB's initiative. The public comment period is a standard part of the regulatory process, allowing stakeholders to voice their opinions before a final rule is implemented. The extensive response highlights the deep divisions over how federal research grants should be managed and overseen.