The California Coastal Commission recently rejected SpaceX CEO Elon Musk’s proposal to increase Falcon 9 launches at Vandenberg Space Force Base due to Musk’s political activities. Musk expressed his frustration on social media, stating that his posts have nothing to do with the commission’s decision. He plans to file a lawsuit against the commission for violating his First Amendment rights.
Despite bipartisan support from lawmakers and the U.S. Air Force, the commission voted against allowing additional launches at Vandenberg. The rejected proposal aimed to increase launches from 36 to 50, primarily for deploying Starlink satellites and military missions.
Commissioner Gretchen Newsom criticized Musk’s political activities and statements, leading to the rejection of the proposal. The commission retains the right to pursue mediation or legal action against SpaceX. The rejection may not be the final decision, as federal agencies like the Space Force can proceed with activities regardless of the commission’s ruling.
In response to the rejection, a bipartisan group of representatives submitted a letter supporting SpaceX’s Vandenberg launches, citing national security and cost savings. Musk’s appearance with former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally also coincided with the commission’s decision.
If SpaceX decides to sue over the rejection, it would not be the first legal battle Musk’s companies have faced in California. Despite past legal challenges, SpaceX and Air Force officials plan to request an increase to 100 launches for 2025 at the upcoming commission meeting in December. Please rewrite this sentence.
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