An unprecedented number of US scientists are trading in their lab coats to run for office in the US mid-term elections in November. Many running as Democrats are motivated by the actions of President Donald Trump and his Republican allies to delay and terminate research funding and redefine the goals of government-funded science. Different issues tend to galvanize the scientists running as Republicans, including the artificial-intelligence driven demand for more energy ' along with a desire to play a part in science-backed solutions. The organization 314 Action, which recruits and backs Democratic scientists, engineers and health-care specialists to run for office, has received more than 700 applications from potential candidates seeking support during this election cycle ' nearly triple its usual volume (see 'Political push'). The organization funds candidates to win seats in their state and federal legislatures, with the aim of building 'pro-science power at the ballot box'. For...
learn more
