Representative Marlin A. Stutzman (R-IN-03)

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 Stutzman's strong fiscal conservative record, including past votes to reduce government spending and a focus on budget matters, suggests he may be skeptical of calls for increased federal investment, particularly in light of the proposed 47% cut to NASA's Science Mission Directorate. His district also lacks significant direct NASA Science contracts or grants, removing a key economic incentive for his support. Furthermore, his current committee assignments do not place him in a position of direct influence over space policy or NASA's budget.

Despite these challenges, there are potential avenues for engagement. Representative Stutzman has expressed appreciation for "ingenuity and innovation" and described research and development as a "helpful, useful tool." His past support for alternative energy research and engagement with Purdue University Fort Wayne, which hosts a NASA-affiliated Space Grant Consortium, indicate an understanding of the value of scientific and technological advancement and local STEM connections. Advocates could frame increased NASA science funding as a strategic investment in innovation, R&D, and workforce development that benefits the nation, rather than solely as increased spending.

Preparation Recommendations

• Consider highlighting how NASA science investments directly support STEM education and workforce development at Purdue University Fort Wayne, a local institution he has engaged with, fostering innovation and preparing students for future careers in his district.
• Explore connecting NASA's scientific research to broader innovation and technological advancements that could benefit Indiana's economy or agricultural sector, aligning with his appreciation for R&D and interest in science-related consumer issues.
• Look into framing NASA science funding as a strategic investment in foundational research that drives long-term economic growth and national competitiveness, appealing to his interest in business and innovation despite fiscal conservative leanings.

About Marlin A. Stutzman

• Fourth-generation farmer and co-owner of Stutzman Farms.
• Owner of Stutzman Farms Trucking.
• Served in the Indiana House of Representatives (2003-2009) and Indiana Senate (2009-2010).
• As state senator, helped pass alternative energy incentives legislation.
• Attended Glen Oaks Community College and Tri-State University.

Opportunities

• Support for Innovation and Technology: Representative Stutzman's official platform highlights "ingenuity and innovation" as hallmarks of the American experience and discusses digital assets and blockchain technology, aligning with the advanced technological nature of NASA science. (Stutzman.house.gov, Undated), (CBS News, 2025-07)

  • Local Connection: Northeast Indiana, including the 3rd district, benefits from technological advancements and research and development, which can foster economic growth and job creation.

• Past Support for Alternative Energy Research: As an Indiana State Senator, Representative Stutzman helped pass alternative energy incentives legislation, demonstrating a historical interest in supporting scientific and technological development through policy. (Biography)

  • Local Connection: This legislative action directly supported research and development within Indiana.

• Engagement with Purdue University Fort Wayne: Representative Stutzman hosted a job fair at Purdue University Fort Wayne in August 2025, engaging with a local institution that houses the Indiana Space Grant Consortium, which receives NASA funding for STEM education and research. (Stutzman.house.gov, 2025-08), (Purdue Fort Wayne, 2023-07)

  • Local Connection: Purdue University Fort Wayne is located within his district and has direct ties to NASA-funded STEM activities and workforce development.

• Interest in Science-Related Consumer Issues: In July 2025, Representative Stutzman introduced the "Apeel Reveal Act," which mandates labeling for produce treated with a shelf-life-extending coating, indicating an interest in the application of science and technology to consumer transparency. (Ft Wayne Times, 2025-07)

  • Local Connection: This legislation addresses consumer concerns that could impact agricultural practices and food science, relevant to Indiana's agricultural sector.

• Appreciation for Research and Development: In a 2015 interview, Representative Stutzman described research and development as a "very helpful, useful tool," suggesting a general understanding and appreciation for the value of scientific inquiry and its practical applications. (FortWayne.com, 2015-05)

  • Local Connection: This general appreciation for R&D can be leveraged to highlight the benefits of NASA science investments for broader scientific and economic advancement in Indiana.

Challenges

• Lack of Direct Space Policy Influence: Representative Stutzman holds no current committee assignments directly related to space or science, limiting his direct influence on NASA's budget and policy. (Authoritative Committee Data, 2025-09)
• Fiscal Conservatism: Representative Stutzman voted in favor of H.R. 4, the Rescissions Act of 2025, indicating a posture towards reducing government spending. (Rep. Stutzman Official Statement, 2025-09)
• Limited District Economic Ties: No relevant NASA Science Mission Directorate contracts or grants were found for Indiana's 3rd congressional district, suggesting a lack of direct local economic benefit from these activities. (USAspending, FY2022-FY2024)
• Historical Fiscal Conservatism: During his previous tenure, Representative Stutzman authored the Conservative Congressional Budget and was known for a track record of lower taxes and balanced budgets, indicating a long-standing preference for reduced government spending. (House.gov, 2025-01)
• Focus on Economic and Business Priorities: Representative Stutzman's background as a farmer and business owner, coupled with his historical legislative focus on financial services and budget matters, suggests a primary orientation towards economic and business issues. (House.gov, 2025-01)