President Donald Trump’s administration is considering eliminating the White House’s National Space Council, a cabinet policy panel that has faced pressure from lobbyists at Elon Musk’s SpaceX. Sources familiar with the situation have indicated that Trump’s aides and SpaceX’s top lobbyist, Mat Dunn, have expressed doubts about the council’s effectiveness, deeming it a “waste of time.”
Despite the council being required by law to be chaired by Vice President JD Vance, there are uncertainties surrounding its future. Following Trump’s election victory, his team reportedly did not engage with the space council, leading to speculation about its potential demise. The council’s staff offices near the White House have reportedly been largely vacated, signaling a shift in priorities.
While no official decision has been announced regarding the council’s fate, its potential discontinuation would signal a shift in space policy under the influence of SpaceX. The relationship between Musk and Trump has been characterized by shared interests in space exploration, including plans for missions to Mars.
In contrast, the Biden administration opted to maintain the council, focusing on international collaborations and regulations in space. The council’s activities have included releasing proposals that have stirred debate within the private space industry, particularly concerning government oversight.
The fate of the National Space Council remains uncertain, with differing views on its value persisting between administrations. The potential elimination of the council could lead to a reevaluation of space policy efforts from Trump’s first term, as well as an effort to streamline federal bureaucracy, a priority emphasized by Musk’s government efficiency team.
Amidst these discussions, the role of dedicated space policy teams has been highlighted as essential to ensuring that space-related issues receive adequate attention within the White House. The debate over the future of the National Space Council reflects broader considerations about the prioritization of space exploration and governance within the U.S. government.
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