I am a constituent in Lexington. I support having tax dollars spent on science and research.
I write to express alarm over the proposed 24% reduction in NASA’s fiscal year 2026 budget, as outlined in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025. This unprecedented cut, slashing funding from $24.8 billion to $18.8 billion, threatens to erode America’s leadership in space exploration and scientific discovery. The termination of 41 science projects, including missions like New Horizons and Juno, and the severe reduction in funding for the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope jeopardize decades of progress in astrophysics.
These cuts, coupled with a 32% workforce reduction, will **dismantle institutional expertise and stifle innovation**. The elimination of programs like Mars Sample Return undermines our ability to compete globally, particularly against nations like China, which are intensifying their space ambitions. NASA’s contributions have historically driven technological advancements, from GPS to medical imaging, fueling economic growth and job creation. Yet, the bill’s focus on short-term priorities like defense over long-term scientific investment risks ceding our strategic advantage.
The proposed cuts also eliminate the Office of STEM Engagement, severing a critical pipeline for inspiring future scientists, including 2 college students I know personally who will be attending the University of Kentucky School of Engineering in Fall 2025. This is not just a budget reduction; it is a retreat from progress. I urge you to reconsider these measures and restore NASA’s funding to ensure America remains the global leader in space exploration. Your support is vital to safeguarding our scientific legacy and economic future.
Addison Hosea 3276 Hunters Point Dr, Lexington, KY 40515 addisonhosea3@yahoo.com 859-263-1908
