Complicating matters is the presence of SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, who has been the face of Mr. Trump’s cost-cutting efforts. Mr. Musk has long been critical of regulatory oversight from federal agencies such as the Federal Aviation Administration and could see cutting the space council as a prerogative for the Department of Government Efficiency.
Mr. Musk’s position in the White House has raised concerns from some that he may have too much influence over U.S. space policy. Reaffirming the space council could help assuage fears.