Donald Trump, former U.S. President, has selected a scientist embroiled in the “Sharpiegate” controversy to take the helm of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Ryan Maue, a renowned meteorologist known for his belief in climate change, was chosen to serve as the agency’s chief scientist.
The decision to appoint Maue seemed to be guided by the steadily rising scepticism surrounding climate change within Trump’s administration. The meteorologist’s appointment, however, was met with a wave of criticism in light of his involvement in the “Sharpiegate” scandal. It was in this incident where Trump inaccurately suggested that Alabama was in the path of Hurricane Dorian in 2019, using a map crudely altered with a Sharpie marker as evidence. Maue controversially supported Trump’s assertion at the time.
Opponents of Maue’s appointment point to the “Sharpiegate” incident as an indication of his potential willingness to manipulate the scientific process for political ends. Despite this, supporters of Maue argue that his strong qualifications as a meteorologist and his belief in man-made climate change make him a suitable candidate for the role.
The choice of Maue for this position by the Trump administration underscores the complex tension within the scientific community, where contrasting views of evidence-based policy versus political agenda continue to spar. Ultimately, the appointment served as a stark reminder of the broader questions concerning the integrity of and trust in science in governance.
Last modified: February 5, 2025
