Trump signs NASA funding bill, advancing cause of manned missions to Mars

President Donald Trump signed the NASA Transition Authorization Act on Tuesday, officially authorizing $19.5 billion in funding for the research and development of technologies for space travel. Among the bill's stated goals is the "human habitation on another celestial body" sometime this century; presumably, this effort would focus on Mars, Earth's nearest neighbor with a relatively survivable atmosphere.

Tuesday on "Pat & Stu," the guys reacted to news of the bill's signing with a mix of approval and discontent.

"I'd rather have it done privately now, I think, but I've always been a fan of the space program. I've never resented that," Pat Gray said.

"I'm not a big NASA fan myself," Stu Burguiere responded. "I'd rather be cutting that budget and have it being done more privately. But I understand. It's not a particularly controversial part of the budget, and it's a small slice."

Pat and Stu then named the only four federal agencies slated for funding increases under Trump's proposed budget: NASA, the Departments of Defense, Homeland Security, and Veterans Affairs. Pat praised the pride Americans take in our space-faring accomplishments and the many scientific and technological advancements brought about by America's space programs over the years as compelling reasons to continue funding NASA.

To see more from Pat & Stu, visit their channel on TheBlaze and listen live to “Pat & Stu” with Pat Gray, Stu Burguiere and Jeffy Fisher weekdays 5–7 p.m. ET, only on TheBlaze Radio Network.