Elon Musk’s team at NASA has begun a thorough review of the agency’s workforce data and finances, in an effort to cut costs. However, this move is causing tension with Republican lawmakers whose districts are heavily funded by the $93 billion Artemis program aimed at returning American astronauts to the moon.
The Artemis program is facing its largest test yet as Musk’s cost-cutting measures may put it in jeopardy. This has left Republicans with a difficult decision – support the party’s agenda or protect their home-state jobs tied to NASA funding.
Musk’s move has also drawn criticism from some who fear it will harm the US space program, which is crucial for advancing scientific knowledge and national security interests.
Source: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-02-15/republicans-tough-nasa-choice-protect-home-state-jobs-or-back-doge