So The NY Times aids and abets the Trump administration in spreading false and unverified information about a tiny, infinitesimal number of slightly unusually cases.

What could the Trump administration and The NY Times possibly have as gain? I'm being sarcastic of course. We know why the Trump administration wants it - to throw another bone to their base and to placate the religious right and The NY Times to, well, I'm not sure - more clicks?

There's nothing the Trump administration won't lie about to further their power.

The Undead by Dick Teresi [0] gives an eye opening exposition of the history of the science, policy, and players of modern organization donation. His book predates the current fracas.

[0]: https://www.amazon.com/Undead-Harvesting-Ice-Water-Beating-H...