On August 23, the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation (Commerce) held a nomination hearing for Kelvin Droegemeier, the Administration’s nominee for Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP). Droegemeier was warmly introduced by both of his home state senators: Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-OK) and Sen. James Lankford (R-OK). The senators highlighted Droegemeier’s service to the University of Oklahoma and his important work on extreme climate events, particularly relevant to a tornado-heavy state like Oklahoma. Traditionally, having the support of your home state senators is an encouraging step toward confirmation.
In his opening remarks, Droegemeier described himself as an educator, public policy professional, and a storm chaser. He described that today is an exciting time in science and that it is vital we maintain our national commitment to scientific pursuits as we face daunting global challenges. If confirmed, Droegemeier would focus on improving our STEM education pipeline and encouraging stronger private-public partnerships, ensuring promising discoveries and technologies are effectively transferred to the private sector and continue to spur job growth across the country.
Droegemeier received numerous questions throughout the hearing. Chairman John Thune (R-SD) queried Droegemeier on what the appropriate role is for science in public policy decision making. He replied that science plays a key role in informing policy and that it is critical that science remains free from political interference. Several senators asked Droegemeier about the rise of China and what the United States can do to maintain its global leadership in science and technology. In his answers, Droegemeier cited exciting developments in artificial intelligence, big data, and quantum computing to claim that the United States remains the global leader in innovation. However, he cautioned that we must also continue strong public investments in research and science to maintain our innovation edge.
Overall, Droegemeier appeared to be well received by senators of both parties. While it remains to be seen when his confirmation will come before the full Senate, Droegemeier appears to be on track to be favorably reported out by the Senate Commerce Committee. In fact, Senator Thune, in his closing remarks, alluded to further Commerce Committee consideration of Droegemeier as soon as next week.
If you are interested in watching the hearing, you may do so by visiting the Senate Commerce Committee’s website.