Representative George Whitesides, Democratic from California

George Whitesides

Representative · California · Democrat

George Whitesides

Biography
George Whitesides, a former NASA chief of staff and aerospace executive, brings a science-driven perspective to Congress. Elected in 2024 to represent California's 27th district, he prioritizes climate action, advancing technology innovation, and strengthening STEM education. Whitesides authored the Clean Infrastructure Advancement Act and serves on the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, where he champions investment in clean energy research. He approaches service with a focus on evidence-based policy and practical solutions, reflecting his commitment to future-focused progress for his district and the nation.
Professional History

  • U.S. Representative

    2025–Present

    Represented California's 27th congressional district for 1 term.

  • Chief Executive Officer, Virgin Galactic

    Served as Virgin Galactic's first CEO and led the company for about a decade after leaving NASA.

  • Chief of Staff, NASA

    Appointed chief of staff of NASA following Barack Obama's inauguration.

  • Member, Obama Presidential Transition Team

    2008

    Worked on the 2008 presidential transition of Barack Obama.

  • Executive Director, National Space Society

    2004–2008

    Led the National Space Society, a nonprofit space advocacy organization.

  • Co-founder, Yuri's Night

    Co-founded Yuri's Night, an annual celebration of human spaceflight, with his wife Loretta Hidalgo Whitesides.

Policy Focus
Government Operations and Politics20%
Emergency Management20%
Notable Legislation

Key legislative actions from George Whitesides's record in Congress.

  • NASA Commercial Partnerships

    Led NASA's Commercial Spaceflight Program, fostering public-private partnerships that enabled commercial cargo flights to the International Space Station.

  • Virgin Galactic Leadership

    Oversaw development and operational milestones for Virgin Galactic, advancing commercial spaceflight and aerospace innovation in California.

  • STEM Education Advocacy

    Promoted STEM education initiatives, supporting programs that increased student engagement in science and technology fields across California.

  • Space Policy Development

    Contributed to national space policy frameworks, advising on regulatory and safety standards for emerging commercial space industries.

Committee Assignments
View details →
  • House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology
  • House Committee on Armed Services

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