Trump Administration Plans to Abolish National Space Council

Trump Administration Plans to Abolish National Space Council
Sources familiar with the plan report that President Donald Trump’s new administration intends to eliminate the White House’s National Space Council, a cabinet-level policy panel. This action reportedly stems from pressure from lobbyists at Elon Musk’s SpaceX, who have advocated for its dissolution.
SpaceX’s Influence on Trump’s Space Policy
Trump’s aides and SpaceX lobbyist Mat Dunn have expressed their belief that the space council is unnecessary. Their skepticism raises concerns about Vice President JD Vance’s willingness to chair the council as required by law, casting doubt on its future prospects.
Lack of Coordination and Transition During Trump’s Election
Following Trump’s election victory, his team neglected to contact the space council, chaired by Kamala Harris, as they did with other agencies for transition planning. The council’s office near the White House has been largely emptied, suggesting preparations for its termination.
Political Divide on the Value of the Space Council
Views on the space council’s importance vary among presidential administrations. Some view it as redundant to smaller White House space offices, while others appreciate its ability to expedite action on space priorities.
Audrey Schaffer’s Defense of the Space Council
Audrey Schaffer, former space policy chief on Biden’s National Security Council, argued in an op-ed that the council plays a vital role. She highlighted the risk of neglecting space issues due to the overwhelming workload facing White House staff without a dedicated space policy team.
Trump’s Space Policy Legacy from First Term
If the space council is abolished, Trump’s team intends to build upon space policy efforts from his first term, including the creation of the U.S. Space Force, lunar exploration goals, and commercial space launch regulations.
SpaceX’s Close Ties to Trump and Mars Ambitions
Musk, the CEO of SpaceX, has forged a close relationship with Trump and shares his aspirations for sending missions to Mars. Trump’s support for SpaceX, including the appointment of Musk associate Jared Isaacman to lead NASA, indicates the company’s growing influence over U.S. space policy.
Biden Administration’s Space Council Initiatives
Biden’s administration maintained the space council and focused on international alliances and space regulations. However, a proposal to increase government supervision of corporate space activity drew criticism from the private space sector.