Former Pick to Head NASA Could Be Back in the Running

The president pulled Jared Isaacman’s nomination in May because of differences over a Mars mission. But Isaacman met with the acting NASA chief this week.

Jared Isaacman testifies at a Senate committee hearing on Capitol Hill on April 9, 2025. Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images

Jared Isaacman’s ambitions to become NASA’s next administrator could have new life.

The private astronaut met with Transportation Secretary and current acting NASA Administrator Sean Duffy on Oct. 13 for what could be the restart of his consideration as the space agency’s new full-time leader.