Can a former Trump adviser fend off science cuts?

Kelvin Droegemeier is leading a push to maintain federal support for research overhead costs.

August 19, 2025 Check out STAT+

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Kayana Szymczak for STAT STAT+ | Can a humble, Harley-riding professor and former Trump adviser fend off science cuts? Kelvin Droegemeier is driving a high-stakes push on NIH indirect costs, with billions in funding and U.S. science leadership on the line By Jonathan Wosen National pediatrics group splits with RFK Jr. on Covid vaccinations American Academy of Pediatrics publishes 'evidence-based' guidance for influenza, RSV, and COVID-19 immunizations to counter Kennedy's recommendations. By Anil Oza STAT+ | Trump may push hard for lower drug prices using a tool created by Democrats D.C. insiders expect Trump to amp up the Medicare drug price negotiation program established by Biden in effort to exceed last year's 22% reduction. By John Wilkerson Molly Ferguson for STAT STAT+ | Why direct-to-consumer sales are unlikely to significantly lower drug costs Some experts say the move is unlikely to significantly help consumers, but see no harm in it. Others worry it could let the pharma industry off the hook. By Elaine Chen STAT+ | Elevance loses lawsuit over Medicare Advantage quality ratings Elevance could miss out on $375 million after losing a lawsuit over its Medicare Advantage star ratings. By Bob Herman STAT+ | Viking Therapeutics oral weight loss drug hits mark in mid-stage trial but disappoints investors But new data from a clinical trial, including side effect and discontinuation rates, disappointed investors on Tuesday. By Allison DeAngelis John Moore/Getty Images Opinion: Study saying monthly cash won't help children's health is highly misleading — even irresponsible The Baby's First Years study says monthly checks won't help children's health. Experts say it's highly misleading — even irresponsible. By Joan Luby and Deanna Barch Opinion: The hidden neurological toll of wildfires Exposure to wildfire smoke and trauma during critical developmental windows can fundamentally alter brain structure and function. By Burcin Ikiz and Clayton Page Aldern

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