Our 10 most popular posts in 2025

Key policy shifts and funding cuts shaped major news stories in 2025. From changes to public health data access to debates over school schedules, the year saw significant developments in education, welfare, and trade policy. Researchers and journalists worked to clarify complex issues as federal agencies faced restructuring and budget changes.

In early 2025, the Trump administration temporarily stopped communications from the Department of Health and Human Services. Federal health databases were removed from government websites, prompting efforts to archive them before they disappeared. The move raised concerns, especially as a vaccine sceptic took charge of the agency. In response, a detailed guide on childhood vaccines—covering safety and side effects—was published to address public confusion.

The year also saw over 2,000 US public schools adopt a four-day week. Studies on its effects showed mixed results, with outcomes varying by region and student age. Meanwhile, proposed cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) were closely analysed, as federal spending on safety-net programmes faced potential reductions. Trade policy remained a major focus, with President Trump’s tariff agenda requiring clear, evidence-based explanations. Journalists broke down how tariffs function and their economic impact. The future of the US Department of Education was also debated, with discussions about possible closures under Trump’s second term. Among the most-read pieces of 2025 were articles on these policy shifts. The top 10 included research on SNAP funding, school week changes, and federal health data access. Denise-Marie Ordway contributed regularly to *The Trace*, while popularity rankings were based on Google Analytics data tracking unique page views. The list featured tip sheets, expert commentaries, and updated research articles.

The year’s top stories reflected ongoing changes in federal policy and public services. Cuts to welfare programmes, shifts in education, and health data restrictions had measurable effects on communities. Researchers and reporters continued to provide evidence-based analysis as these developments unfolded.