A French scientist was denied entry to the U.S. after immigration officers discovered critical messages about the Trump administration on his phone, according to the French government.
The scientist, a space researcher working for the National Center for Scientific Research, had traveled to Texas for a conference but was stopped at the airport on March 9. During a routine check, officers searched his work computer and phone, finding messages in which he expressed negative views about the Trump administration’s research policies.
He was reportedly accused of writing messages that were considered “hateful” toward Trump and even linked to terrorism. His personal equipment was confiscated before he was deported the next day.
France’s higher education minister, Philippe Baptiste, condemned the action, defending the researcher’s right to hold personal opinions and affirming the country’s commitment to freedom of expression and academic freedom. Baptiste also pointed out the broader implications for international scientific cooperation, offering displaced researchers an opportunity to work in France.
This incident follows significant cuts to research funding under the Trump administration, including EPA layoffs and reductions in NIH grants, which have sparked protests among scientists and raised concerns about the future of scientific research in the U.S.
