How a distrust of experts is shaping government policy under Trump

By Selena Simmons-Duffin,

Domenico Montanaro

Published August 8, 2025 at 2:17 PM MDT

President Trump and members of his administration have often expressed a distrust of science and experts. That distrust is now helping to shape policies in several areas of government, from vaccines and health care to trade and the economy.

Selena Simmons-Duffin

Selena Simmons-Duffin reports on health policy for NPR.

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Domenico Montanaro

Domenico Montanaro is NPR's senior political editor/correspondent. Based in Washington, D.C., his work appears on air and online delivering analysis of the political climate in Washington and campaigns. He also helps edit political coverage.

See stories by Domenico Montanaro