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The Trump administration officially sent Congress its 2027 budget proposal on Friday. Among the social and health programs Trump is looking to cut to fund his defense spending increases is the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the government’s main medical research branch. NIH was a target of DOGE cuts in 2025, and Trump’s budget proposal seeks to further reduce its funding by $5 billion, citing concerns over wasteful spending, misleading information, and promotion of ideologies that undermine public health. The NIH has made major breakthroughs in vaccines, heart disease, and AIDS research, with 174 researchers funded by the agency winning Nobel Prizes. However, Trump’s administration accuses NIH of funding LGBTQ and minority health research and resisting scientific consensus on medical claims aligned with MAGA’s rhetoric. Examples include studies on HIV risk affecting mental and sexual health of young men and sexually transmitted infections among transgender women. The budget proposal also references NIH funding for EcoHealth Alliance, which supported the Wuhan Institute of Virology, allegedly linked to the COVID-19 pandemic. While lab-leak theories remain debated, the White House continues to promote them to justify racism against Chinese Americans and support unfounded conspiracies. Congress retains the power to approve or modify these cuts. With Republicans holding majorities in both chambers, the 2027 budget is expected to pass before the midterms, which could favor Democratic challengers. Meanwhile, the Trump administration faces criticism for its handling of the Iran war, which began five weeks ago. Despite claims of victory, U.S. military intelligence suggests Iran’s missile and drone capabilities remain largely intact, with only partial destruction reported. The White House has dismissed concerns about the war’s impact on domestic politics, but surveys show growing disapproval among voters. A CNN poll indicates 66% disapprove of U.S. military action against Iran. Iranian state media has confirmed the downing of a U.S. F-15 fighter jet, offering a reward for capturing the pilot alive. Additionally, the administration is reportedly reshaping its higher echelons, with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer reportedly under threat of dismissal. Trump has also fired Attorney General Pam Bondi amid ongoing controversies, including handling of the Epstein files and potential leaks to California Representative Eric Swalwell. The labor market has also shown signs of weakness, with February’s job losses revised to 133,000—a record since the pandemic peak. Despite March’s job gains, economists warn of continued economic challenges ahead of the midterms. Meanwhile, Trump’s lavish spending on personal projects, including a $100 million golden ballroom, contrasts sharply with economic struggles faced by American workers.