Federal science funding is helping Maine students develop the curiosity that powers discovery. But a recent proposal from the White House to slash federal science funding is putting our program and many others in jeopardy. Beyond applications in internet security and cell networks, number theory has also led to the modern configuration of mechanical gears in clocks. Lawmakers know how important federal science funding is to our future. She and her colleagues should continue to support STEM by championing increases in federal funding this appropriations cycle.