Note: This analysis uses AI to help identify potential outreach strategies for space science issues. Because it uses AI, it is important to understand the sources and limitations of this analysis. Space-related committee assignments (if present), and additional sources (if present), are from congress.gov and a direct output of a targeted web search. Opportunities, challenges, overall summary, and preparation recommendations are products of AI analyses. The biography uses AI to summarize key aspects of the member's Wikipedia page. All AI-generated claims, assessments, and recommendations should be independently verified. This is an experimental feature, and intended to provide guidance and inspiration for outreach strategies for your meeting. Feedback is welcome: casey.dreier@planetary.org.
Representative Crawford's consistent focus on fiscal conservatism and reducing government spending, including votes for significant cuts to non-defense, non-VA programs, presents a primary challenge for advocating increased NASA space science funding, especially given the proposed 47% cut in FY2026. This is compounded by the complete absence of NASA Science Mission Directorate contracts or grants within his district, removing a direct economic incentive for his support. Furthermore, his lack of space-related committee assignments limits his direct influence, and his skepticism toward environmental science may extend to parts of NASA's Earth science portfolio.
Despite these hurdles, there are potential avenues for engagement. His alma mater, Arkansas State University, actively participates in NASA-sponsored research, providing a local connection and tangible examples of STEM workforce development within his district. His advocacy for commercial space streamlining and emphasis on technological innovation in agriculture also suggest a general interest in space and science applications, particularly where Earth science data could benefit agricultural advancements. These local connections and broader interests offer a basis for discussion, despite his overall fiscal priorities.
Local NASA-affiliated Research: Arkansas State University, located in Representative Crawford's district and his alma mater, has actively participated in NASA-sponsored research projects, including sending experiments to the International Space Station and engaging in the Nationwide Eclipse Ballooning Project. (THV11, 2022-07; Arkansas State University, 2022-12; Arkansas State University, 2023-05)
Support for STEM Workforce Development: Representative Crawford's district benefits from local institutions like Arkansas State University providing students with real-world STEM experience through NASA-sponsored projects, aligning with broader goals of developing a skilled workforce. (Arkansas State University, 2023-05)
Advocacy for Commercial Space Streamlining: Representative Crawford has publicly advocated for streamlining Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations to foster the growth and competitiveness of the commercial space industry, mentioning NASA and SpaceX in this context. (Politico Pro, 2024-11; Washington Times, 2024-07)
Emphasis on Technological Innovation in Agriculture: Representative Crawford, with a background in agriculture, has stated his confidence in America leading agricultural production through technological innovation, a field that can leverage Earth science data and research. (House.gov, undated)
Recognition of Science and Space Exploration as Federal Priorities: A recent appropriations report, which outlines federal spending priorities, includes "fundamental scientific research, and space exploration" as areas to be funded at "fiscally responsible levels," indicating a recognition of their value even amidst calls for spending control. (Government Report, 2025-07)