Trump's Budget Proposes Billions for SpaceX, Cuts Other Agencies

President Trump's new budget proposal significantly boosts funding for SpaceX, positioning Elon Musk's company as a central partner in both a next-generation missile defense initiative and renewed efforts for manned missions to the Moon and Mars. While defense spending is set to rise by 13%, including billions potentially directed to SpaceX for the proposed 'Golden Dome' missile defense shield, the budget imposes steep cuts on agencies like the CDC, NIH, and education programs. NASA's focus shifts away from unmanned scientific missions toward human exploration, with $1 billion earmarked for Mars missions. Pentagon officials indicate SpaceX is likely to become the top recipient of new military space contracts, given its expertise in rockets and satellite systems. The proposal has sparked debate over prioritizing ambitious space and defense projects at the expense of public welfare programs. The plan still requires Congressional approval and has already drawn both political support and criticism.