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 Moolenaar's recent support for reduced NASA Exploration and Science funding in the FY2025 Commerce, Justice, Science appropriations bill, coupled with his consistent emphasis on fiscal conservatism, suggests a skeptical stance toward increased federal investment in NASA's science activities. His voting record also indicates a general skepticism toward Earth science and climate change initiatives, which could be a significant hurdle given the focus of many NASA science programs.
However, his position on the House Committee on Appropriations provides a direct avenue for influence on NASA's budget. Advocates can highlight the over $668,000 in NASA Earth science grants awarded to Grand Valley State University and Central Michigan University within his district, demonstrating tangible local benefits from these specific science programs. His background in chemistry may also offer a point of connection regarding the value of scientific research.
Preparation Recommendations
Consider how NASA's broader scientific endeavors, beyond Earth science, might resonate with Representative Moolenaar's chemistry background and experience at Dow Chemical, perhaps focusing on materials science, propulsion chemistry, or fundamental research that drives innovation.
Explore the specific research outcomes or student involvement from the NASA grants at Grand Valley State University and Central Michigan University to demonstrate tangible local benefits and educational opportunities within his district.
Look into how NASA's science investments contribute to U.S. technological leadership and economic competitiveness, potentially aligning with concerns about national security and reducing reliance on foreign adversaries in critical scientific fields.
About John R. Moolenaar
Earned a Bachelor of Science in chemistry from Hope College (1983).
Worked as a chemist at Dow Chemical Company.
Received a Master of Public Administration from Harvard University (1989).
Served in the Michigan House and Senate before U.S. Congress.
Opportunities
Membership on House Committee on Appropriations: Representative Moolenaar's position on the House Committee on Appropriations provides him a direct role in shaping federal spending, including NASA's budget for science activities, which impacts institutions in his district. (Authoritative Committee Data, 119th Congress)
Support for Local University NASA Earth Science Research: Universities within his district, Grand Valley State University and Central Michigan University, received over $668,000 in NASA grants for Earth science research, including climate and carbon monitoring, demonstrating a direct local benefit from NASA's Science Mission Directorate activities. (USAspending, FY2022-FY2024)
Background in Chemistry: Representative Moolenaar's academic background with a Bachelor of Science in chemistry and professional experience as a chemist at Dow Chemical Company suggests a foundational understanding and potential appreciation for scientific research and development. (Biography)
Challenges
Support for Reduced NASA Science and Exploration Funding: As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, Representative Moolenaar supported the FY2025 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill (H.R. 9026), which proposed decreased funding for NASA's Exploration and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Engagement accounts.
General Fiscal Conservatism and Spending Reduction Focus: Representative Moolenaar consistently emphasizes fiscal responsibility, reducing the national debt, and cutting government spending, as evidenced by his public statements and vote for the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" (H.R. 1) in May 2025. This posture may lead to skepticism regarding increased federal investments in NASA science activities.
Skepticism towards Earth Science/Climate Change Initiatives: Representative Moolenaar's voting record, as assessed by the League of Conservation Voters, indicates opposition to actions on climate and environmental justice, which may translate to limited support for NASA's Earth science activities.
Concerns over Foreign Influence in Research: As Chairman of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, Representative Moolenaar has actively pursued legislation, such as the SAFE Research Act, to restrict federal STEM funding for universities collaborating with foreign adversaries, which could impact international science collaborations.