NASA Cutting 3 Offices, Reducing Workforce

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2 days ago

Above: The NASA logo is displayed at the agency's booth during CES 2018. Image copyright: Ethan Miller/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Imagesstory last updated 1 day ago

The Facts

NASA has initiated a reduction in force (RIF) by closing three offices: the Office of Technology, Policy, and Strategy; the Office of the Chief Scientist; and the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Branch. This will result in the laying off of 23 employees as part of a broader federal workforce reduction ordered by the Trump administration.
This decision was announced Monday in an email to workers from NASA Acting Administrator Janet Petro, who said the agency was responding to the Feb. 11 executive order directing federal agencies to prepare for large-scale workforce reductions and submit reorganization plans by March 13.
The Office of the Chief Scientist, led by climate scientist Kate Calvin since 2022, has provided independent assessment and advice on science-related matters and led the agency's scientific integrity policies since 1982.

The Spin

Republican narrative

This restructuring represents a necessary step toward creating a more efficient and effective federal agency. DOGE is ensuring taxpayer resources are being used optimally while maintaining statutorily required functions.

FOX News

Democratic narrative

This elimination of crucial offices is devastating, as it diminishes the role of science in national priorities and threatens NASA's ability to maintain scientific integrity and strategic planning capabilities.

Axios

Narrative C

Aside from the obvious harm to NASA's ability to keep the US on the cutting edge of technology and space navigation, these cuts are concerning because of Elon Musk's role. His SpaceX is a NASA competitor, solidifying DOGE's efforts in this realm as a clear conflict of interest.

Huntsville Business Journal