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2h ago

Senate Report Says White House Directed NASA to Enact Unapproved Cuts as Shutdown Looms

Democratic investigators cite OMB pressure, an impoundment strategy under a continuing resolution, plus a shutdown memo ordering layoff planning.

The United States flag hangs behind the NASA logo at the NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, Monday, Sept. 22, 2025.
Near NASA’s Mary W. Jackson headquarters in Washington, D.C., some lawmakers are pushing for a measure that would protect NASA employees during a government shutdown. Credit: NASA/Joel Kowsky
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Overview

  • An official staff report from the Senate Commerce Committee alleges OMB Director Russell Vought has pushed NASA since early summer to follow President Trump’s FY2026 budget request before Congress acts.
  • Internal notes cited in the report describe impoundment as a likely tool under a stopgap funding bill to force the proposed budget levels despite existing appropriations.
  • NASA Chief of Staff Brian Hughes told employees it would be irresponsible to wait for Congress, signaling alignment to the FY26 request even if funding begins at FY25 levels under a continuing resolution.
  • Whistleblowers say a 20% workforce loss from buyouts and reorganization has chilled safety reporting, with one warning of a possible astronaut death within a few years and concerns about a muzzled Ombuds Program.
  • The OMB directed agencies to prepare reductions in force during a potential shutdown, while Congress advances bills to sustain NASA funding and considers protective language to block early implementation of cuts and mission cancellations such as Mars Sample Return, New Horizons, and Juno.