FAS Statement on Michael Kratsios’ OSTP Hearing
Yesterday, Michael Kratsios, the president’s nominee to be director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), repeatedly stressed his belief in the importance of continuing the United States’ historic leadership in science and technological innovation, and the goal of “ensuring that all Americans benefit from scientific and technological advances.”
Mr. Kratsios’ words, along with his track record and OSTP experience as U.S. Chief Technology Officer, offer encouragement that our community can continue to work constructively with him and the important office he would lead.
With so much at stake, we cannot afford to cede science and technological leadership or its underpinnings: foundational federal R&D investments, growing STEM talent pipelines, and the best scientific and technical expertise to support policymakers. Commitment to these things are the basis for a healthy and thriving society.
As Congress considers broader packages to advance critical minerals production and supply chain resilience, science diplomacy vehicles must be part of that conversation, not as an afterthought, but as an intentional and foundational pillar of any strategy.
“Structured partnerships with our allies on critical minerals innovation can ensure that the best science and the best talent are working together towards shared security and economic prosperity.”
This is a bipartisan, commonsense measure to reauthorize the Technology Modernization Fund (TMF) before it expires in September 2026.
Many states are introducing AI policies and task forces, but lack the “AI-native” personnel to build and maintain initiatives. To address this in the short term, states should establish AI Resilience Cohorts to embed early-career technologists in key offices to support state AI initiatives. Right now, Virginia and New Jersey have the opportunity to take […]