The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has announced that the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) has canceled 402 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) grants, resulting in savings of $233 million. This includes $1 million initially allocated for "Antiracist Teacher Leadership for Statewide Transformation." The announcement was made via a post on X.
The NSF said on X that it terminated awards that were considered misaligned with the agency’s core priorities. The foundation emphasized its commitment to ensuring that both current and future funding aligns with its mission of creating opportunities for all Americans while promoting inclusivity without excluding any group.
Sethuraman Panchanathan, director of the NSF, addressed the agency’s priorities on April 18, 2025. Panchanathan noted that since its inception in 1950, the NSF has aimed to advance science and engineering to improve national health, prosperity, welfare, and defense. The agency fulfills this mission by investing in high-potential ideas and individuals across various scientific fields. He added that the NSF’s priorities are guided by its core mission, statutory requirements, and policies from the current administration.
DOGE announcement on NSF canceling wasteful grants
| https://x.com/DOGE/status/1913403692906324405
According to an April 2025 Harvard-Harris Poll, 69% of voters support efforts to identify and eliminate fraud and waste in government spending. In contrast, only 31% back the goal of reducing government expenditures by $1 trillion. Additionally, a majority believe the U.S. should focus on balancing its budget, reducing government spending, and conducting a thorough review of current expenditures.
DOGE is described as a federal agency dedicated to optimizing government spending by reducing waste and ensuring accountability in contract management. According to information shared on X, DOGE aims to enhance fiscal responsibility by reviewing expenditures and canceling non-essential contracts to improve public resource allocation effectiveness.
