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 Science, Space, and Technology
Overall Summary
Representative Baird's consistent record of fiscal conservatism and opposition to large federal spending packages suggests a skeptical stance on calls for increased NASA Science Mission Directorate funding, particularly in light of the proposed 47% cut for FY26. His skepticism towards environmental regulations could also pose a challenge for certain Earth science initiatives within NASA. While he serves on the House Science Committee, his public record does not frequently feature explicit advocacy for increased science investments.
Nevertheless, his committee assignment provides direct engagement with NASA, and the significant NASA science grants awarded to Purdue University in his district offer a strong point of connection. These grants support diverse local research, including planetary science and Earth science with agricultural applications like soil moisture measurement, directly benefiting his constituents and the state's research economy. Highlighting the tangible local impact of these existing science programs could make him receptive to protecting and potentially growing these investments.
Preparation Recommendations
Consider exploring how Purdue University's NASA-funded research on root-zone soil moisture and snow water equivalent directly benefits Indiana's agricultural sector and water resource management, aligning with Representative Baird's focus on rural issues.
Look into the economic impact of NASA science grants at Purdue University, including job creation and technological spin-offs, to illustrate the tangible return on federal investment within his district and state.
Explore Representative Baird's past statements or questions during House Science Committee hearings related to NASA's science mission, seeking common ground or areas where his scientific background might connect with specific research outcomes.
About James R. Baird
Holds a Ph.D. in Animal Science from the University of Kentucky.
Worked as an animal nutritionist and Purdue University extension agent.
Decorated Vietnam War veteran, serving in the U.S. Army Infantry.
Owner of Baird Family Farms and other small businesses.
Opportunities
House Science Committee Membership: Representative Baird's position on the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology provides direct oversight and engagement with NASA's mission, including its science programs. (House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, current)
Support for Local NASA Science Research: Purdue University in Indiana receives substantial NASA grants for diverse science activities, including planetary science, Earth science, and instrument development, directly benefiting the state's research economy, with projects like "space weathering processes on the surface of Mercury" and "measuring root-zone Soil Moisture (RZSM) And Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) from Space." (USAspending, FY2022-FY2024)
Active Participation in NASA Oversight: As a member of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, Representative Baird participates in hearings concerning NASA's future, indicating an active interest in the agency's direction and programs. (House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, 2023-07-19)
Challenges
Fiscal Conservatism: Representative Baird consistently advocates for reduced federal spending and fiscal responsibility, opposing what he describes as "Washington's spending addiction."
Skepticism of Environmental and Energy Regulations: He has supported efforts to roll back environmental regulations, characterizing them as "costly" and "burdensome," and has voted against government funding for renewable energy.
Prioritization of Agricultural and Rural Issues: His legislative focus and committee work heavily emphasize supporting agriculture, rural communities, and related research, which may compete with broader space science initiatives for attention and resources.
Opposition to Large Federal Spending Packages: He has voted against significant federal spending bills, including the "Inflation Reduction Act of 2022" and other appropriations acts, reflecting a general reluctance to expand the federal budget.
Limited Explicit Advocacy for Increased Science Funding: While acknowledging the importance of space, his public record does not frequently feature explicit advocacy for increased investment in NASA's Science Mission Directorate activities beyond general support or local university ties.