Senator Ben Ray Lujan in Response to OncoDaily About Pediatric Cancer Funding

Pediatric cancer research has long been a national priority, and Senator Ben Ray Lujan, along with recent political developments, has underscored its vital importance. In January, OncoDaily highlighted a critical issue in pediatric oncology funding after a government deal faced scrutiny following Elon Musk’s social media criticism. Musk called the bill a “Christmas tree,” arguing it contradicted conservative principles. His opposition gained traction, pressuring lawmakers—particularly Republicans—to reassess the package.

Amid growing pushback, key provisions, including the Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act 2.0 and the Give Kids a Chance Act, were stripped from the final bill. These measures would have allocated $190 million for pediatric cancer and rare disease research at the NIH. Despite bipartisan support, they became casualties of a broader spending battle, raising concerns about the future of pediatric oncology research.

The fallout has sparked debate among lawmakers, advocacy groups, and public figures about responsibility and how to ensure pediatric cancer remains a priority. The funding loss raises urgent questions about the nation’s commitment to fighting pediatric cancer and preventing research setbacks due to political disputes.

Recognizing the significance of this issue, OncoDaily decided to write and send an article to U.S. senators, urging them to take action and ensure that pediatric cancer research remains a national priority. In addition to highlighting the impact of the funding cuts, OncoDaily sought clarity on key legislative decisions by posing the following questions to lawmakers:

1.What were the main reasons the Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act and other related provisions were delayed or put on hold during earlier sessions?
2.Why were key measures, such as those in the Give Kids a Chance Act, ultimately omitted from the final spending package?
3.Are there plans or strategies under consideration to restore or enhance funding for pediatric cancer research in the near future?

source: www.nbcnews.com

Senator Ben Ray Lujan’s Response

Senator Ben Ray Lujan has directly addressed constituent concerns regarding the vital role of medical research funding, emphasizing a strong commitment to supporting key institutions. In response to an inquiry, the senator stated, ”Every New Mexican deserves to live a full and healthy life, which is why supporting medical research into diseases such as cancer, Parkinson’s, and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is an essential part of our health care system.”

The senator highlighted the importance of continued investment, noting that ”Ensuring that researchers conducting this important work have the resources they need is a strong investment in our Nation’s health.” This stance underscores a dedication to maintaining the momentum of medical advancements.

Senator  Lujan further emphasized their support for ”robust funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Cancer Institute (NCI), Department of Defense’s (DoD’s) Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP), and other federal program responsible for conducting research in the medical field.” The senator expressed alarm over potential funding disruptions, citing concerns about ”the Trump administrations recent decisions that threaten to create a serious funding shortfall for research institutions in New Mexico, undermine progress on lifesaving scientific advancements, jeopardize the U.S. economy, and endanger the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of workers.”

To counter these potential threats, the senator detailed their active involvement in protecting research funding, stating, ”I was proud to join my Senate Democratic colleagues in sending a letter to Secretary Kennedy urging him to allow the NIH to continue fundamental medical research without interruptions. I am committed to defending the NIH’s critical role in sustaining the research infrastructure necessary for scientific breakthroughs.”

Looking ahead, Senator Lujan pledged continued advocacy during the fiscal year 2026 appropriations process, asserting, ”Funding is a vital piece of our fight against all devastating diseases, and as your Senator, please know that as I work with my colleagues through the fiscal year 2026 appropriations process, I am continuing to defend and advocate for the resources necessary to support our medical research network”.

Read Also: OncoDaily’s Special Editorial Article on Pediatric Cancer Funding Cut