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.
Overall Summary
Representative Gosar's strong fiscal conservatism and concerns about government spending pose a significant challenge to advocating for increased NASA space science funding, particularly in light of the proposed FY26 budget cuts. His past votes indicate skepticism towards certain Earth science funding, and his district currently lacks direct economic ties from NASA Science Mission Directorate contracts or grants. His legislative priorities also appear to lie in other areas, suggesting space science may not be a primary focus.
While his primary legislative focus appears to be elsewhere, there are potential avenues for engagement. His general support for STEM education and his office's assistance with federal grants suggest an openness to federal investment in principle. Additionally, Arizona's leading role in space science research through institutions like the University of Arizona and Arizona State University provides a statewide context for the importance of NASA's scientific endeavors that could be leveraged.
Preparation Recommendations
Consider identifying constituents in his district who are alumni of Arizona universities with strong NASA science programs, or who have benefited from STEM education pathways that lead to space science careers, to personalize the statewide impact.
Explore how increased investment in NASA's space science activities can be presented as a strategic, long-term investment in American innovation and economic competitiveness, aligning with his emphasis on STEM education and fiscal responsibility.
Look into how NASA's broader mission, including exploration programs with a district presence like Northrop Grumman's Gateway work, can create a pipeline for skilled jobs and technological advancements that benefit his constituents, connecting to his interest in economic development.
About Paul A. Gosar
Holds a B.S. degree from Creighton University (1981).
Earned a D.D.S. from Creighton's Boyne School of Dentistry (1985).
Practiced dentistry in Flagstaff, Arizona, for over two decades.
Served as President of the Arizona Dental Association (2004-2005).
Opportunities
District Economic Contribution to NASA Exploration: Northrop Grumman's facility in Gilbert, AZ-09, is actively involved in building a critical component for NASA's lunar Gateway space station, directly linking NASA's exploration programs to local employment and economic activity within his district.
Statewide Leadership in Space Science Research: Arizona is home to leading institutions like the University of Arizona and Arizona State University, which conduct extensive NASA-funded research in planetary science, astrophysics, and Earth science, positioning the state as a significant contributor to national space science endeavors.
Emphasis on STEM Education: Representative Gosar has highlighted the importance of a strong education system to produce leaders and innovators, particularly noting the need for improvement in math and science, which indirectly supports the foundational skills necessary for careers in space science.
Facilitation of Federal Grant Access: His congressional office provides resources to assist constituents in identifying and applying for federal grants, indicating a general awareness of and support for accessing federal funding opportunities, which could extend to scientific research.
Challenges
Skepticism towards Earth Science Funding: Representative Gosar voted in favor of legislation in November 2023 that aimed to claw back nearly $10 billion from "green-new deal policies" and included amendments to prevent certain EPA regulations, indicating a posture critical of specific environmental science funding and regulations. (House.gov, 2023-11)
Fiscal Conservatism and Spending Concerns: Representative Gosar's official statements emphasize concerns about the national debt and a "serious spending problem," advocating for reduced government spending and a fiscally sustainable path. (House.gov, 2025-06) He also voted against the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023. (Wikipedia, 2023)
Lack of Direct Space-Related Committee Role: Representative Gosar does not hold any current space-related committee assignments in the 119th Congress, limiting his direct legislative influence or oversight on NASA's activities.
Absence of Local NASA Economic Ties: There are no relevant NASA Science Mission Directorate contracts or grants identified for Arizona's 9th congressional district in recent fiscal years. (USAspending, FY2022-FY2024)
Focus on Other Legislative Priorities: Representative Gosar's recent public statements and legislative efforts frequently highlight issues such as federal land management, criminal justice reform, and economic development within his district, suggesting a primary focus on these areas over space science. (House.gov, 2025-09) He also co-sponsored an amendment to block funding for Ukraine aid in July 2025, indicating other national spending priorities. (Politico Pro, 2025-07)