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
Member, House Committee on Appropriations
Overall Summary
Representative Quigley's primary focus as Ranking Member of the THUD Appropriations Subcommittee and the minimal NASA science economic activity in his district (only $4K over three years) suggest he may not be an immediate champion for increased NASA Science Mission Directorate funding. While he generally opposes broad federal cuts, his strong environmental advocacy might lead him to prioritize Earth science over other space science disciplines, potentially limiting support for a comprehensive increase.
However, his position on the full Appropriations Committee offers a direct avenue to influence NASA's budget, and his record of supporting innovation, research, and STEM education aligns with the broader goals of space science. Advocates can leverage his general opposition to significant funding reductions and his interest in environmental issues to highlight the value of NASA's scientific endeavors, particularly Earth science, as part of a broader investment in national research and development.
Preparation Recommendations
Consider exploring how specific NASA space science missions, including those beyond Earth science, contribute to understanding planetary systems and climate dynamics, directly aligning with his strong environmental advocacy and academic background in environmental policy.
Look into how increased investment in NASA's space science activities can inspire local students and support STEM education initiatives, building on his office's success in securing Community Project Funding for a local STEM lab modernization.
Explore how increased investment in NASA's space science activities represents a responsible and efficient use of federal funds, yielding national benefits in innovation and knowledge that align with his role on the Appropriations Committee and his advocacy for efficiency.
About Mike Quigley
Earned degrees from Roosevelt University, Loyola University Chicago, and University of Chicago.
Taught environmental policy as an adjunct professor at Loyola University Chicago.
Served as a Cook County Board Commissioner, known for advocating efficiency.
Long-standing environmental advocate; a Sierra Club member since high school.
Supported clean energy legislation and introduced bird-safe building initiatives.
Opportunities
Appropriations Committee Membership: As a Member of the House Committee on Appropriations, Representative Quigley directly influences federal spending, including NASA's budget, and has stated his role involves ensuring effective and responsible allocation of funds that reflect constituent values. (House.gov, Current)
Environmental Advocacy: Representative Quigley has a long-standing record of environmental advocacy, including supporting climate action and the EPA's Endangerment Finding, which aligns with NASA's Earth science activities. He participated in a Northwestern University Climate Change Symposium in his district. (House.gov, Current; Quigley Press Release, 2025-09)
Opposition to Funding Cuts: He recently voted against a Republican continuing resolution, citing concerns over significant funding cuts to various programs, indicating a general posture against reductions in federal investments. (Quigley Press Release, 2025-09)
Support for Innovation and Research: Representative Quigley prioritizes investments in innovation and research, linking them to economic growth and job creation in the Chicagoland area, a goal that NASA's science and exploration programs contribute to. (House.gov, Current; Congress.gov, 2023-11)
Community Project Funding for STEM: His office actively secures Community Project Funding for local initiatives, including a project to modernize a STEM lab in his district, demonstrating support for science education and infrastructure that can foster future scientific talent. (House.gov, 2024-03)
Challenges
Competing Priorities Focus: Representative Quigley's role as Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development (THUD) indicates his primary focus on these significant budget areas, potentially diverting attention from NASA's science appropriations.
Strong Environmental Advocacy: His consistent and strong environmental advocacy, including supporting clean energy and addressing climate change, suggests a potential prioritization of Earth science within NASA, which could compete with other space science or exploration programs for funding.
Limited Direct NASA Science Advocacy: While expressing general excitement for space and its benefits, recent public records do not show explicit, sustained advocacy for increased NASA Science Mission Directorate funding or specific science programs.
Lack of Local NASA Economic Ties: No significant NASA Science Mission Directorate contracts or grants were identified in his district, which may reduce direct economic incentive for increased NASA science investment. (USAspending, FY2022-FY2024)