U.S. President Donald Trump appointed Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy as acting NASA Administrator. This unusual decision allows Duffy to lead both agencies simultaneously. Historically, NASA Administrators have been experienced in space-related fields. Duffy lacks a formal background in science or aerospace, despite overseeing the Federal Aviation Administration. His tenure will likely focus on implementing immediate policy goals including significant budget cuts to NASA that could reduce funding by 25% and cut 5,000 jobs from the workforce. The appointment follows Trump's withdrawal of Jared Isaacman's nomination as NASA Administrator.
Trump stated, "Sean is doing a TREMENDOUS job in handling our Country's Transportation Affairs, including creating a state-of-the-art Air Traffic Control systems, while at the same time rebuilding our roads and bridges, making them efficient, and beautiful, again."
Duffy's appointment is highly unusual. There is no precedent for an acting DOT chief also leading NASA, even on an interim basis.
Historically, NASA Administrators have generally been former astronauts, long-time NASA bureaucrats, former congresspeople or military veterans.
Budget cuts would likely slash many science initiatives and steeply reduce NASA's workforce. The funding reduction is specified as a 25% cut and a decrease of 5,000 in headcount.
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