I've worked for the USDA-ARS. In general, you're overestimating the value and validity of what any independent public employee might have to say. Doubly so for

I've worked for the USDA-ARS. In general, you're overestimating the value and validity of what any independent public employee might have to say. Doubly so for the USDA-ARS. I mean, based solely on how people here are talking, that a bunch of old hippies, bucolic farmers, and bug ranchers holed up in their hillside facilities aren't the savviest ad people and shouldn't be given unfiltered loudspeakers on behalf of their departments would not be the most imprudent decision. I know PhDs who look like they fell out of King of the Hill and still go on about "that old bitch Pelosi". Great scientists, know the natural world with a depth and intimacy few can attain, but who will make you want to punch them in the face on every other topic, which they love to share their opinions on. As long as you don't cut off their research (whose direction is set by the president), the world will be alright. Just please don't ever give them the Twitter login.