There is a difference between just spending and investing. An analysis of programs must include how they contribute to revenues and to the GDP. These science programs give a large return on investment.
I agree the debt /GDP is too high but careful analysis is needed to better identify the problems.  People who are not familiar with science or how it contributes with such things as startups may not understand the importance of these relatively small expenditures.  The ability to better forecast improves things like farming and military so there is a return on the science in addition to the economic side.