Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Trump’s NOAA Nominees Defend 27% Funding Cuts Under Scrutiny Over Privatization Plans

Senators pressed the nominees on their private-sector ties, backing of steep budget cuts and ability to restore critical staffing levels.

Cars pass a bridge over the Guadalupe River on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, after a flash flood swept through the area in Kerrville, Texas. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)
An American flag placed on a stump flies in Kerrville, Texas on Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)
Image
Neil Jacobs speaks at U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration press conference in Arlington, Va., in 2019. Mr. Jacobs is U.S. President Donald Trump's nominee for NOAA administrator.

Overview

  • At the July 9 Senate hearing, Neil Jacobs defended the administration’s proposed 27% funding cut for NOAA, insisting mission-critical forecasting operations will remain intact.
  • Senators intensified scrutiny of appointees’ private-sector ties, spotlighting Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick’s business interests, nominee Neil Jacobs’s industry connections and nominee Taylor Jordan’s lobbying background.
  • Lawmakers highlighted NOAA’s loss of about 1,900 employees, over 3,000 current vacancies and demanded nominees lay out plans for rebuilding National Weather Service staffing.
  • Both nominees signaled alignment with Project 2025’s call to commercialize forecasting functions, pledging to forge private-sector partnerships while protecting public access.
  • Jacobs acknowledged his involvement in the 2019 “Sharpiegate” breach of scientific integrity and vowed not to repeat political interference, outlining efforts to modernize warning systems.