WASHINGTON – U.S. House Science, Space, and Technology Committee Chairman Lamar Smith (R-Texas) issued the following statement today on the Senate’s confirmation of Rep. Jim Bridenstine (R-Okla.) as NASA administrator.

Chairman Smith: “NASA is one of the most storied civilian agencies in the federal government. Its accomplishments are many and its missions continue to inspire millions of Americans young and old. It also has daunting challenges to overcome and new, complex missions to undertake. The Senate has rightfully approved Jim Bridenstine’s nomination. He will lead the agency with knowledge and expertise, leaning on his years of service as a Naval aviator, a member of the U.S. Navy Reserve, former executive director of the Tulsa Air and Space Museum and his work in Congress, especially on the Space Subcommittee of the Science Committee. As chairman of the Science Committee, which has jurisdiction over NASA, I look forward to working with Administrator Bridenstine to maintain America’s leadership in space.”