The US Department of Veterans Affairs has ordered its physicians and scientists to seek clearance from political appointees before publishing in medical journals or speaking publicly. The edict was issued by senior officials, including assistant secretary Curt Cashour and senior adviser John Bartrum, just hours after a prominent article in the New England Journal of Medicine.
The article warned that cancelled contracts, layoffs, and a planned staff reduction could harm the health of millions of veterans seeking help for conditions linked to toxic exposure. The authors, two VA pulmonologists, said they followed established guidelines but were rebuked by Trump’s appointees, who accused them of not following VA policy.
Critics say this is part of a broader “war on science” waged by the Trump administration, which has cut funding for medical research and scientific grants. The move is seen as an attack on freedom of speech and could have serious consequences for veterans’ healthcare.
VA scientists are among the most respected researchers in the country, having made major breakthroughs in fields such as medicine and technology. However, this latest move raises concerns about the agency’s commitment to scientific integrity and transparency.
“It was another attack on freedom of speech,” said Harold Kudler, a psychiatrist and researcher who worked at the VA during both Obama and Trump administrations. “Veterans will suffer because of it. Plus, all research programs will take note.”
The Department of Veterans Affairs has faced criticism for its handling of medical research and scientific grants under the Trump administration. This latest move adds to concerns about censorship and the impact on veterans’ healthcare.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jun/01/us-veterans-affairs-agency-doctors-scientists-research