Published on: 2025-07-04

Intelligence Report: Outfit Behind Slanted Terrorism Studies Pleads For Private Donors After Trump Funding Cuts – The Daily Caller

1. BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front)

The University of Maryland’s National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism (START) is seeking private donations following the cessation of federal funding by the Trump administration. The funding cut was attributed to alleged political bias in START’s research outputs. The consortium’s database has been criticized for potentially misleading data, including the mischaracterization of certain violent acts and groups. The organization is transitioning to a subscription-based model to sustain its operations.

2. Detailed Analysis

The following structured analytic techniques have been applied to ensure methodological consistency:

Cognitive Bias Stress Test

The analysis identified potential biases in START’s data categorization, particularly in the portrayal of right-wing versus left-wing extremism. This bias may have influenced the decision to cut funding.

Bayesian Scenario Modeling

Probabilistic forecasting suggests a moderate likelihood of increased reliance on private donations and subscription models for similar research entities facing federal funding cuts.

Network Influence Mapping

The consortium’s influence network includes law enforcement and academic circles, which may impact its ability to secure alternative funding and maintain credibility.

3. Implications and Strategic Risks

The withdrawal of federal funding from START could lead to a gap in terrorism-related research, potentially affecting national security insights. The shift to private funding may introduce biases based on donor interests. Additionally, the credibility of terrorism databases could be compromised, affecting law enforcement and policy-making.

4. Recommendations and Outlook

• Encourage transparency in data categorization to rebuild trust and credibility.
• Explore diversified funding sources to reduce dependency on any single entity.
• Scenario-based projections:
  • Best case: Successful transition to a sustainable funding model with enhanced data integrity.
  • Worst case: Inability to secure sufficient funding, leading to operational downsizing.
  • Most likely: Gradual adaptation to a mixed funding model with ongoing scrutiny of data practices.

5. Key Individuals and Entities

Thomas Matthew Crooks, Donald Trump

6. Thematic Tags

national security threats, cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, regional focus