The confirmation hearing for Oklahoma U.S. Rep. Jim Bridenstine to become the next Administrator at NASA got off to a bumpy start on Wednesday when he was attacked by the leading Democratic Senator on the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee.
The attack was launched by Sen. Bill Nelson of Florida who accused Bridenstine of being too political and “divisive.”
“What your record is—-the record and your behavior in congress has been divisive and extreme as any we have seen in Washington,” declared the Senator.
He continued for several minutes in criticizing the Republican congressman, reading from statements that Bridenstine has made in the past about others in congress including Republicans.
“NASA needs a leader who will unite us not divide us….respectfully Congressman Bridenstine, you’ve got a long way to go to prove to be that leader,” said Nelson. “Your recent public service career does not instill confidence about your leadership or ability to bring people together.”
He also questioned Bridenstine’s past stance on climate change and his attacks on Florida Sen. Marco Rubio over the issue of immigration.
“On that particular issue,” answered Bridenstine, “I don’t see it as particularly relevant as NASA administrator should I be confirmed.”
He told Sen. Nelson when also asked about immigration, “We are past it now sir and it would be my highest ambition to leave NASA in a way that that’s not an issue.”
Hawaii’s Democratic Senator Brian Schatz also was pointed in his climate change questions of Bridenstine.
“Are you saying you don’t know the scientific consensus or what exists yet, which is it?
“I believe that the consensus humans are contributing and have contributed to the climate change we have seen,” answered the congressman.
As for the claims of divisiveness, Bridenstine pledged to one Senator, “That absolutely is my highest ambition and I want to make sure NASA remains as you apolitical.”
Listen to Sen. Nelson’s attack.