DOGE's decision to cancel a $257,000 federal contract for 9/11-related disease research has stirred controversy and condemnation among New York Democrats. The terminated contract was intended for data processing work on cancer incidence rates among firefighters exposed to World Trade Center toxins compared to those in other U.S. cities.
Political Backlash and Criticism
New York Governor Kathy Hochul and Democratic Representative Ritchie Torres were quick to criticize the role played by tech billionaire Elon Musk's Department of Governmental Efficiency in this cancellation. The move, listed on DOGE's wall of receipts for maximizing governmental efficiency under an executive order by President Trump, has sparked outrage.
Notably, the number of FDNY firefighters who have succumbed to 9/11-related illnesses surpassed those who died on the day of the attacks. This grim milestone has intensified the scrutiny on DOGE's decision and its repercussions.
Community Outcry and Concerns
City Comptroller Brad Lander, a mayoral candidate, emphasized that 9/11 responders are heroes and not political pawns. The cancellation of the contract, as reported by The New York Times, has raised concerns about hindering treatment coverage for new conditions, affecting all Americans who vowed to never forget.
The implications are far-reaching, with researchers relying on the study's outcomes to identify new 9/11-related conditions for coverage under the World Trade Center Health Program. The abrupt halt in funding has been deemed detrimental by union president Oren Barzilay, highlighting the long-term health impact on FDNY EMTs and firefighters.
Call for Action and Support
Despite the contract termination, voices within the community continue to advocate for the well-being of first responders. FDNY Chief Medical Officer David Prezant emphasized the importance of ongoing research and care for these heroes who risked their lives on that fateful day.
The move has sparked calls for accountability from political figures and community leaders, urging a reconsideration of the decision's implications on public health and safety.
As the debate unfolds, the fate of 9/11 research funding hangs in the balance, with stakeholders across various sectors closely monitoring the developments and advocating for the prioritization of first responders' well-being.