Trump Administration Eyes Overhaul of NOAA, Raising Employee Concerns

Washington, D.C. — Federal employees at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) are expressing deep concern over indications that the Trump administration plans to overhaul the agency, which plays a crucial role in weather forecasting and climate research. The potential changes, aimed at cutting government costs, could lead to significant staff reductions and funding cuts for scientific operations.

Employees report anxiety about the impact of President Trump’s recent executive orders, which have raised red flags regarding terms deemed unfavorable in grants and programs. These terms include critical topics such as “climate change,” “pollution,” and “natural resources,” along with concepts associated with diversity, equity, and inclusion. An anonymous NOAA official provided NPR with details of a list outlining those banned terms, signaling a troubling shift in the agency’s research priorities.

“NOAA is integral to various aspects of daily life, from weather forecasting to managing ocean resources,” stated Andy Rosenberg, a former NOAA official. He highlighted the importance of NOAA’s work in tracking severe weather events like hurricanes and tornadoes, which can have dire consequences for communities across the nation.

Discussions around restructuring NOAA have been fueled by a 900-page plan proposed by conservative groups, including the Heritage Foundation. The document labeled NOAA as a significant driver of the climate change alarm industry and advocated for drastic budget cuts, privatization of services, and even breaking up the agency into smaller units. Although Trump distanced himself from this project during his campaign, many authors of the plan have secured influential positions in his administration, raising concerns among NOAA staff about impending changes.

Under scrutiny is the possible reassignment of NOAA and its components. Past administrations have considered relocating NOAA from the Department of Commerce or dismantling its branches, such as transferring the National Marine Fisheries Service to the Fish and Wildlife Service. Such moves could undermine the agency’s efficiency and its ability to protect the nation’s marine resources.

Current NOAA employees fear the agency’s mission may be compromised as the Trump administration seeks to reduce federal spending. They are particularly concerned about the influence of the newly established Department of Government Efficiency, led by figures from the private sector, including those associated with Elon Musk.

The desire for transparency in NOAA’s operations is heightened as employees monitor ongoing developments. Some NOAA workers report a prevailing sense of trepidation. “The mood’s lower than I’ve ever seen it,” said one contractor who asked to remain anonymous due to fears of retribution. “There’s a lot of fear in the office.”

Adding to the uncertainty is the likely return of Neil Jacobs as NOAA’s head. Jacobs previously served as acting administrator during Trump’s first term but faced scrutiny after the Hurricane Dorian incident, where Trump incorrectly stated the storm would affect Alabama. Recent nominations for key NOAA positions, including a weather forecasting expert, continue to signal significant changes at the agency.

The new nominee for secretary of commerce, Howard Lutnick, has faced questions from Senate Democrats regarding his plans for NOAA amidst the Project 2025 direction. Advocates have warned that limiting NOAA’s access to crucial public data could have catastrophic effects on public safety and economic stability during extreme weather events.

“In a world where climatic extremes are becoming the norm, dismantling NOAA seems like a recipe for disaster,” commented Juan Declet-Barreto, senior social scientist for climate vulnerability at the Union of Concerned Scientists. He warned that marginalized communities could suffer if NOAA’s vital resources and information become inaccessible.

When pressed by Senator Maria Cantwell, chair of the Senate Commerce Committee, regarding the fate of NOAA, Lutnick refrained from making specific commitments. He suggested it would be premature to discuss any definitive recommendations without first consulting other federal agencies, including NOAA itself.

As discussions around NOAA’s future progress, the agency’s workforce remains vigilant, aware that the changes promised by the Trump administration could profoundly impact both their roles and the critical services NOAA provides to the country.