University of California President Michael V. Drake, M.D., today (May 2) issued the following statement on the Trump administration’s proposed fiscal year 2026 “skinny” budget:
The University of California and universities across the country are already feeling the negative impacts from federal grant cancellations and funding disruptions that have hindered life-saving research, limited critical patient care, and jeopardized the development of our future scientific workforce. Even in its abbreviated form, the administration’s proposed budget sends a chilling message about its willingness to invest in the future of American innovation, competitiveness, and economic growth.
American research universities have enjoyed an amazing partnership with the federal government for 80 years, the results of which have formed the foundation for global competitiveness and made us the envy of the world.
I am deeply concerned about the impact the proposed cuts would have on the University of California, higher education more broadly, and in turn our larger national community. In addition to reductions in cutting-edge research, limits on financial aid would reduce support for those who need it most, limiting social mobility for students and narrowing the pathway to our much-needed skilled workforce for the future.
This of course marks just the first step in the federal budget process. The University stands ready to work with Congress and our federal partners on solutions that will safeguard economic growth and technological advancement, support students, and protect critical patient care.