Byrd Rule Stalls Houston Shuttle: Texas Pride Hindered

Submitted by MAGA

Posted 6 hours ago

**Houston's Space Shuttle Stalls Due to Byrd Rule: A Hit to Texas Pride**

In a disappointing turn of events for Texas Republicans, a plan to allocate $85 million for the relocation of the iconic space shuttle Discovery to the Johnson Space Center in Houston has hit a roadblock.

Late Sunday, the Senate parliamentarian ruled that the proposal violated the Byrd rule, complicating efforts to include such funding in the filibuster-proof reconciliation package currently being debated.

This setback comes as a blow to GOP Senators Ted Cruz and John Cornyn, who have been vocal advocates for bringing the shuttle back to its rightful home.


Cruz, who chairs the Senate Commerce Committee overseeing NASA, expressed disappointment at the parliamentarian's decision. He had been championing a plan to ensure the Discovery, celebrated for its extensive flights, would be displayed in Houston, the heart of America’s space exploration efforts.

Cornyn, under pressure in his potential Senate primary against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, emphasized the significance of the shuttle’s return, stating that his commitment to making this happen remains steadfast.

Local representatives echoed this sentiment, with GOP Rep. Randy Weber pledging to introduce a House version of the legislation aimed at transferring the shuttle. The effort holds particular importance for Texans who feel overlooked by past decisions. Many recall the Obama administration's controversial choice of storage locations, which they believe disregarded Houston’s historical ties to NASA and its role as Mission Control.

The attempt to secure funding for the Discovery's relocation not only symbolizes a cherished piece of American history but also a collective aspiration for Texans to reclaim a legacy that they feel was unjustly snubbed over the last decade. The need to advocate for such local landmarks has become even more pressing as lawmakers navigate the intricacies of federal funding processes.

As negotiations continue over the reconciliation bill, the clock is ticking. Despite the setback, efforts to find a workaround are ongoing, with Cruz’s team in consultation with the parliamentarian to explore options.

American innovation and exploration should be at the forefront of national pride, and Texas legislators are committed to ensuring that the Discovery finds its new home where it belongs—back in Houston, inspiring future generations.

As discussions advance, the desire to reclaim the Discovery’s legacy remains a unifying cause for Texans and space enthusiasts alike, reminding us that sometimes, the most important battles are fought right at home.

Sources:
visualcapitalist.com
cnbc.com
rollcall.com












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