Colorado Senators Stall Appropriations Package Over NCAR’s Future
Colorado’s U.S. Senators, Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper, recently disrupted the Senate’s plans for a government funding package. The two Democrats placed a hold on a mini-bus appropriations bill, citing concerns over the future of the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) in Boulder. Their actions come in response to the Trump administration’s directive to dismantle NCAR.
Senators Respond to NCAR’s Future
In a joint statement, Bennet and Hickenlooper condemned the administration’s decision, stating it would have severe repercussions across the country. Hickenlooper emphasized the need to ensure funding for NCAR remains in the budget, adhering to its operational requirements. He stated, “We don’t want to see it canceled.”
Political Context
Bennet, who is currently campaigning for governor, took to social media, asserting, “When Trump comes after Colorado, we don’t back down, we fight back.” This stance mirrors ongoing tensions between Colorado Democrats and the Trump administration.
Administration’s Justification and Broader Cuts
Russ Vought, the director of the Office of Management and Budget, described NCAR as “one of the largest sources of climate alarmism in the country.” His announcement also included cuts to other significant Colorado funding, namely:
- $109 million in environmental transportation grants
- $615 million in Department of Energy grant funding
Democratic U.S. Representative Joe Neguse, representing Lafayette and areas surrounding NCAR, criticized the administration’s actions. Neguse suggested the dismantling of NCAR was retaliation against Colorado for its refusal to comply with requests concerning former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters, who faces legal issues over her involvement in election tampering.
Potential Implications for Government Funding
The hold placed by Bennet and Hickenlooper complicates the Senate’s efforts to pass the bipartisan spending package. This package is essential for funding several government departments, including:
- Education
- Commerce
- Health and Human Services
- Transportation
- Housing and Urban Development
- Labor
- Interior
Senate Majority Leader John Thune recognized the challenge posed by the hold. He indicated that discussions would continue over the following weeks to seek a resolution. With government funding set to expire on January 30, urgent action is required to avoid disruption.
As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on the implications for NCAR and the broader funding environment in Colorado. The Senators’ actions reflect a commitment to protect critical scientific institutions from federal budget cuts.
