California Rejects SpaceX's Plan for 50 Launches Over Musk's Politics, Impacting Space Force

Oct 12, 2024, 04:15 PM

The California Coastal Commission voted 6-to-4 against approving an increase in SpaceX rocket launches from Vandenberg Space Force Base to 50 per year. The non-binding decision impacts Space Force's plans and cites concerns over CEO Elon Musk's political activities, including his posts on X (formerly Twitter), support for former President Donald Trump, and comments about the transgender community. Commissioner Gretchen Newsom criticized Musk, stating he is "hopping about the country, spewing and tweeting political falsehoods." The decision also affects Starlink satellite launches and has raised First Amendment concerns, with critics calling it an abuse of power and a violation of free speech. Commissioners referenced alarming reports about working conditions at Musk's companies from Reuters and Bloomberg.