In a thoughtful and timely exchange, The Economist’s Adam O’Neal and CNBC’s Tyler Mathisen explored the wide-reaching implications of recent federal budget cuts across multiple agencies. O’Neal offered a clear-eyed, nonpartisan analysis of how these reductions are impacting science, innovation, and public institutions. The discussion helped the audience better understand the policy shifts underway in Washington and their real-world consequences. Grounded in facts and framed with context, this important conversation highlighted the delicate balance between politics, funding, and progress, giving the audience a nuanced understanding of current affairs.