President Trump awards nation’s highest science prizes to major Big Tech donors

President Donald Trump has awarded the National Medal of Science and the National Medal of Technology and Innovation to several prominent figures in the technology sector. The recipients, who include high-profile executives and investors, have collectively contributed nearly $6 billion to political efforts and organizations associated with the Trump administration. This move has sparked significant debate regarding the intersection of political fundraising and the recognition of scientific achievement. Critics argue that the selection process appears to prioritize financial loyalty over traditional academic or technical merit, while supporters maintain that the awardees have made substantial contributions to the nation’s technological advancement. The White House has defended the selections, emphasizing the recipients' roles in driving innovation and economic growth. The awards, which are traditionally considered the highest honors for scientific and technological achievement in the United States, are now under increased scrutiny by ethics watchdogs and the scientific community.