1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

The Trump administration's interference with the Fulbright program is deeply concerning and a violation of the program's integrity. The abrupt cancellation of nearly 200 American scholars' Fulbright grants, based on the political motivations of unelected bureaucrats rather than merit, undermines academic freedom and sets a dangerous precedent. The prestigious Fulbright program has operated successfully for almost 80 years by allowing educational exchanges to occur free from political agendas. Rejecting scholars solely due to their research topics is unacceptable interference. Furthermore, the review of over 1,200 foreign scholars already approved to come to the U.S. threatens to disrupt valuable cultural exchanges that enhance America's global standing. This blatant politicization of the Fulbright program jeopardizes its Congressional mandate and long-term national interests. Esteemed academics must be able to pursue knowledge unfettered by ideological constraints from any administration. Immediately cease this unwarranted meddling and allow the Fulbright board to operate independently based on academic merit alone, as intended since the program's inception. Restore the integrity of this vital international exchange.