Where is Dava Newman?
Keith’s note: Dava Newman was chosen as the nominee for NASA Deputy Administrator 5 months ago in October 2014. We have heard nothing since then. Dava Newman has yet to testify before the Senate (and get their approval) so it is unclear when she will be formally confirmed. With impending food fights in the Republican-led Congress, such routine things as nominations may be stalled – or (worse) may become opportunities to score partisan points against the Administration – with the nominee taking the brunt of the negative energy.
Meanwhile, Charlie Bolden has been telling senior NASA staff that he intends to be doing
“a lot of traveling in my final two years”. Stay Tuned.
Keith’s update: Word has it that Dava Newman will be present with Charlie Bolden at the Senate Commerce Committee hearing on Thursday.
I raised this issue in a meeting I had with a Senate staffer recently
during the SEA Legislative Blitz. According to the staffer I spoke
with, the delays have thus far been mostly due to Dava Newman getting
all the required paperwork completed and accepted, and then to make the
rounds talking to each applicable Senator BEFORE the very public
hearings. The staffer did not believe there has been any intentional
delays and believes that she WILL be confirmed by the Senate.
The nutters trying to say that this is being delayed is simply not true. What Ronnie Lajole below says is true. I would never have posted it. Butits out there now.
When Ms Dava has the required documents she can go on the dog and pony show. I think she will get appointed.