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NASA may soon have a new leader to direct its efforts to return astronauts to the moon. After two contentious hearings in the past 3 months, US congressman Jim Bridenstine is one step closer to be confirmed as NASA Administrator.
Today’s 14-13 decision to take up a vote in the full Senate was split along party lines. This is the same result of a November 2017 hearing. Because the previous nomination did not reach the Senate before the end of last year, Bridenstine had to be re-nominated and another vote taken.
During the 2017 hearing, Bridenstine faced opposition from Democrats, who cited his past statements on climate change, his qualifications, and concerns that he might not be able to lead NASA without interference from partisan beliefs and interests.
Of particular concern were Bridenstine’s past statements about climate