Babin, Brian

Brian Babin is a Republican representative from Texas's 36th congressional district who has chaired the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology since entering Congress in 2015. As chair, he controls the committee's agenda, schedules hearings and markups, and determines which bills advance—giving him significant influence over federal science funding, NASA operations, and technology policy. The committee oversees agencies including NASA, the National Science Foundation, and NOAA, making it central to American innovation and space exploration priorities.

Babin brings practical expertise to the role through his background as a dentist and extensive local government service in Southeast Texas. He served as president of the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners and held positions on regional water and environmental authorities, providing him with direct experience in health care, infrastructure, and resource management. His career reflects deep roots in Republican politics—he worked on campaigns for Reagan, Bush, and other GOP candidates while building the party's presence in traditionally Democratic East Texas.

As Science Committee chair, Babin has advanced legislation including the NASA Reauthorization Act of 2026 and the NOAA Weather Radio Modernization Act, reflecting his committee's dual focus on space exploration and environmental monitoring. He also serves on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, where he participates in work on highways, transit, and water resources. His legislative portfolio spans from space policy to specialized health issues, including the Dialysis-Related Amyloidosis Treatment Act of 2025.

Babin represents a district encompassing southeastern Houston and surrounding areas. Before his 2014 election to Congress, he had sought federal office twice before, running unsuccessfully for Texas's 2nd district in 1996 and 1998. His path to the Science Committee chairmanship reflects both his longevity in the House Republican caucus and his party's control of the chamber.