Senator Durbin Slams 'Heist' of Space Shuttle Discovery to Texas

The Space Shuttle Competition and Display

• 🎯 A competition 12 years ago determined that the Space Shuttle Discovery would be displayed at a new National Air and Space Museum facility in Chantilly, Virginia.
• 💡 This facility has since attracted 25 million visitors who viewed the shuttle at no cost.

The Proposed Move to Texas

• 💰 A provision in the reconciliation bill allocates $85 million to move the space shuttle from Virginia to Texas.
• ⚠️ Senator Durbin argues this amount is insufficient, with estimates suggesting a total cost of $178 million for the move and a new facility.
• 📉 This move is framed as an attempt by Texas to win a competition it lost 12 years prior.

Concerns Over Cost and Smithsonian History

• 💸 The $85 million appropriation is described as potentially $85 million worth of waste due to the underestimated costs.
• 🏛️ Durbin states this would be the first time the Smithsonian has had a display forcibly taken from its possession.
• 🧐 He criticizes the lack of honest accounting regarding the true expenses involved.

'Heist' Accusation and Call for Honesty

• 🚨 Durbin labels the proposed forced transfer as a 'heist' by Texas.
• 🗣️ He urges colleagues to be honest about the costs and implications before approving the measure.
• 🚫 Durbin ultimately withdraws his amendment but emphasizes the need for careful consideration.