Trump Sought To End SpaceX Deal, But Agencies Deemed Most Essential To NASA, DoD

The Trump administration reviewed SpaceX’s contracts amid potential cuts, following the president's concerns about Elon Musk’s companies, according to The Wall Street Journal. The June review included a request for spreadsheets detailing contract values and potential alternatives; however, officials found that most SpaceX deals were essential to the missions of NASA and the Defense Department. SpaceX’s reusable rockets, Crew Dragon capsule, and Starlink internet service remain dominant in government space operations, with few viable competitors. The company has continued securing contracts, including a $5.9 billion Pentagon deal for 28 national-security launches, despite Trump’s public criticism. Musk, once a Trump ally, clashed with the president over fiscal policy and decried his spending bill, prompting the spat. Officials noted frustration among industry rivals, but acknowledged SpaceX’s pricing, reliability, and technology keep it indispensable.