Exploring Potential Space Policy Directions Under Kamala Harris
What a Kamala Harris White House Will Mean for Space Policy
As Vice President Kamala Harris prepares to accept the Democratic nomination this week in Chicago, her space policy priorities are coming into focus. Though Harris did not engage much in public space work prior to joining President Joe Biden’s ticket, her leadership role in the National Space Council has led her to oversee crucial discussions around significant space issues.
Key Space Issues and Harris’s Focus
- The administration’s framework for overseeing novel space missions
- The moratorium on destructive ASAT testing
Harris’s efforts towards the ASAT testing moratorium reflect her commitment to space sustainability and adherence to established international laws. Insights from a former administration official reveal that her broader priorities will focus on:
- Responsible growth in the space industry, ensuring it doesn't become the domain of just a few billionaires.
- Engaging with allies in space, an area Harris has emphasized.
- A national security posture prioritizing the protection of U.S. interests in orbit.
While it’s likely there will be continuity between the Trump and Biden administrations in terms of space policy, Harris is anticipated to advocate for clarity in norms and standards governing outer space. Whether or not any potential major shifts occur remains to be seen.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.