Huntsville Remains Top Choice for US Space Command Headquarters, GAO Report Suggests

Political leaders in Alabama are highlighting a recent report from the Office of Government Accountability (GAO) that supports Huntsville as the prime location for the new US Space Command headquarters.

The GAO report, released on Thursday, outlines issues surrounding the decision to relocate the Space Command headquarters away from Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville.

“The GAO report reaffirms that Huntsville is the ideal option for the Space Command headquarters,” said Mike Rogers, who chairs the House Armed Services Committee. He emphasized that during President Trump’s decision-making regarding the headquarters, aspects of transparency, national security, and fiscal responsibility would be prioritized. “Several GAO findings and recent inspector general reports have backed this up.”

Related: GAO Report points out delays in space command HQ decisions under Biden

Rogers criticized the Biden administration, alleging that it politicized national security issues.

“President Biden overlooked various Air Force analyses, putting political goals ahead of America’s best interests. He claimed ‘military readiness’ to support his decision, yet his own officials have told him repeatedly that Huntsville is the best option, signaling that concerns over ‘military readiness’ are exaggerated,” he stated.

“This obvious interference and politicization of crucial national security decisions has cost taxpayers over $420 million,” Rogers continued. “The contrast is stark. President Trump selected the right location for the Space Command headquarters. We’re eager to work with the Trump administration to rectify another national security misstep by Biden.”

US Representative Dale Strong (R-Huntsville) mentioned that the report strengthens his belief that the Trump administration would soon announce the relocation of the Space Command headquarters to Huntsville.

Related: Mike Rogers announces formal assignment for headquarters construction in Huntsville.

“The report confirms what we’ve known: building and maintaining the headquarters in Alabama would save $426 million for US taxpayers,” Strong noted. “The report also criticizes Colorado’s multiple locations, which are not functioning effectively and need replacement.”

“We feel confident moving forward, and believe Donald Trump will prioritize national security appropriately. This could create around 1,700 jobs and lead to about 3,000 related opportunities,” he added.

The newly appointed Air Force Secretary, Troy Meink, is expected to soon endorse the return of the Space Command headquarters to Huntsville.