WASHINGTON >> President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday to tighten federal grant approvals, with grant award decisions to now undergo evaluation by Trump’s political appointees, the White House said.

The Trump administration has threatened to cut federal funds for various agencies and educational institutions over a range of issues. These include pro-Palestinian protests against U.S. ally Israel’s war in Gaza, climate initiatives, transgender policies and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs.

The order signed on Thursday and released by the White House said “discretionary awards must, where applicable, demonstrably advance the President’s policy priorities.” It said subject matter experts would also be involved in decisions on awarding grants.

The order crit

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