Senator Adam B. Schiff (D-CA)

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

Senator Adam Schiff has demonstrated a clear and recent commitment to NASA's science mission, actively opposing proposed budget cuts, including the significant 47% reduction for FY26. His consistent advocacy for critical programs like Mars Sample Return, coupled with his membership in the Planetary Science Caucus and emphasis on protecting California's space workforce—particularly at institutions like JPL, which receives billions in NASA science contracts across all directorates—indicates a strong understanding of and support for these activities. The substantial $8.9 billion in NASA science spending in California over the last three years provides a significant economic incentive for his continued engagement.

While Senator Schiff is likely to be receptive to defending NASA science funding against cuts, advocates should be mindful of his publicly stated "overriding concerns" regarding domestic issues such as housing, homelessness, and healthcare. His broad legislative focus suggests that while he values NASA's contributions, securing substantial increases across all Science Mission Directorate activities may face competition from other pressing priorities on his agenda.

Preparation Recommendations

About Adam B. Schiff

Opportunities

Challenges