1. United States
2. Ind.
3. Letter

The proposal to take over the National Science Foundation (NSF) headquarters building for the Department of Housing and Urban Development raises huge concerns. The displacement of over 1,800 NSF employees with no clear relocation plan is highly disruptive and risks impacting NSF's critical scientific research funding and operations across the country. NSF is a primary funding source for advanced research critical to our nation’s economic competitiveness, well-being, and national defense. It also is one of the primary funding sources for producing our future scientists and engineers. Ill-considered DOGE cuts and budget projections are already stressing NSF, threatening to disrupt their vital role even more. Furthermore, allocating substantial resources to construct lavish accommodations such as a private gym and executive dining room for the HUD Secretary and his family CLEARLY contradicts claims of fiscal responsibility and cutting government waste. If you cared about doing that, then roll back HUD’s plan to sell its current headquarters and keep NSF where it is. This abrupt decision to displace NSF without proper communication or planning for affected employees exhibits a lack of respect for the workforce and NSF's vital mission. I urge you, in the strongest possible terms, to seek to stop this takeover, ensure transparent communication with stakeholders, and prioritize responsible use of taxpayer funds while minimizing disruptions to NSF's invaluable scientific initiatives that benefit our nation.