President Donald Trump's second term saw a significant decline in federal data collection across various sectors, according to a report released Dec. 31, 2025. The administration's actions, detailed in a report by ClimateInside, ranged from ideological opposition to data to budget cuts hindering agencies' ability to monitor the country.
The report highlighted instances where data collection was undermined in areas such as environmental monitoring, public health tracking, employment statistics, demographic surveys, and weather forecasting. Umair Irfan, lead author of the ClimateInside report, stated, "The degradation of data collection poses a significant threat to scientific advancement and informed decision-making."
One example cited was the scaling back of environmental monitoring programs, which experts say could impede the ability to track pollution levels and climate change impacts. Budget cuts at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) led to a reduction in the number of monitoring stations and the frequency of data collection, according to the report.
In the realm of public health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) experienced disruptions in data collection related to disease outbreaks and chronic health conditions. The report noted that these disruptions could hinder the early detection of health threats and the development of effective interventions.
The administration's approach to data collection has drawn criticism from scientists, policymakers, and advocacy groups. Critics argue that the lack of robust and accurate data could have far-reaching consequences for public health, economic stability, and environmental protection. "Without reliable data, we are flying blind," said Dr. Emily Carter, a professor of environmental science at Stanford University. "It becomes difficult to assess the effectiveness of policies and make informed decisions about the future."
Looking ahead, the long-term effects of these data collection rollbacks remain uncertain. Experts warn that the erosion of data infrastructure could take years to reverse, even with renewed investment and commitment. The ClimateInside report calls for increased transparency and accountability in data collection practices to ensure that government agencies have the resources and support needed to fulfill their mission.
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