User:Hmm7cs/scipol

Most of the leading political issues in the United States have a scientific component. For example, healthcare, renewable energy, climate change, and national security. The number of Congressional members and other politicians with backgrounds in science, engineering, and technology has grown in recent years, with the 116th Congress setting a record with 47 of 535 members with STEM backgrounds. Therefore, most U.S. politicians refer to various congressional support agencies for analysis on science related issues, including the Congressional Research Service, Government Accountability Office, and the Congressional Budget Office.

Amongst U.S. public opinion, 60% of Americans believe scientific experts should play an active role in policy debates over relevant issues, although this view is divided amongst Democrats and Republicans. Broadly, a majority of Americans believe that scientists should be involved in shaping policies related to medical and health, energy, education, environmental, infrastructure, defense, and agriculture policies.