Opinion - Washington is dismantling the pathway to the next cancer breakthrough

Experimental mRNA vaccines are showing real promise — keeping many pancreatic cancer patients alive years later and cutting melanoma recurrence nearly in half.
A new federal rule would give political appointees final say on grants, make peer review largely advisory, and even allow cutting already-awarded projects — critics say that politicizes science.
Advocates warn proposed 37% cuts to the National Cancer Institute and recent grant cancellations could choke future breakthroughs; the rule is slated for Oct. 1 and public comments are open until July 13.