President's new science council: 9 billionaires and 1 scientist
7 hours ago
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- President Donald Trump appointed 13 members to PCAST, with 12 being top tech executives and only one university researcher.
- New members include billionaires like Mark Zuckerberg, Larry Ellison, and Sergey Brin, with combined wealth over $900 billion.
- Critics highlight the lack of biologists and minimal academic representation, raising concerns about preparedness for biotechnology challenges.
- PCAST advises on science policy and reviews cross-agency programs, with work largely done by subcommittees and staff.
- Trump's PCAST contrasts with previous administrations, focusing on AI, quantum, and nuclear priorities, and may expand further.