Billionaire entrepreneur Jared Isaacman was confirmed by the Senate as NASA’s new head, ending a year-long nomination saga.

Initially nominated by President-elect Donald Trump in December 2024, his nomination was withdrawn five months later due to a review of prior associations, then renominated in November.

Isaacman’s confirmation comes at a critical time as NASA faces budget and staffing challenges from previous federal cuts.

The Senate approved his nomination 67-30, following a committee hearing where he emphasized returning astronauts to the moon before China, NBC News has reported.

Sen. Ted Cruz, who chairs the committee, supported a year-end confirmation.