Alabama Lawmakers Pledge to Continue Fighting for Space Command Headquarters
The congressional delegation of Alabama is vowing to continue the fight after President Joe Biden decided not to relocate the U.S. Space Command headquarters to Huntsville, Alabama. The decision means the loss of 1,400 jobs and an estimated annual economic impact of $1 billion. House Armed Services Committee chairman Mike Rogers has pledged to intensify an investigation into the motives behind the decision, claiming it was politically motivated. Biden’s administration cited the potential decade-long process of relocating the headquarters as a reason to keep it in Colorado Springs, which can be operational in a month. Alabama congressmen have argued that abortion politics played a role in the decision, particularly due to an abortion law in Alabama. Additionally, there has been backlash over a blockade on promotions at the Pentagon by Sen. Tommy Tuberville, protesting a Defense Department policy on abortion. It is unclear what actions lawmakers can take even if they uncover evidence of improper decision-making. Rep. Terri Sewell expressed frustration over the decision, and Rogers is demanding requested documents by Aug. 9, threatening a subpoena if they do not comply.