Representative Laura Friedman (D-CA-30)

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.

NASA-related Committee Assignments or Caucuses

Overall Summary

Representative Friedman's membership on the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee offers a direct opportunity for advocacy. Her recent co-signing of a bipartisan letter opposing proposed FY2026 cuts to NASA's Science Mission Directorate, specifically mentioning Earth science, planetary science (VERITAS), astrophysics (Chandra), and biological and physical sciences, is a strong indicator of her willingness to protect these programs. Additionally, her district benefits from NASA science contracts, including for lunar regolith acquisition and commercial smallsat data, providing a tangible local connection to space science investment.

However, her primary legislative priorities often revolve around housing, public safety, and environmental issues, which may compete for her focus. While her environmental advocacy aligns well with NASA's Earth Science, her public statements regarding her committee role tend to emphasize Earth-focused applications. Advocates should therefore highlight the broader scientific and economic benefits of increased investment across all NASA science directorates, beyond just preventing cuts, to fully engage her support.

Preparation Recommendations

About Laura Friedman

Opportunities

Challenges