California officials reject more SpaceX rocket launches, with some citing Elon Musk’s X posts

SpaceX’s proposal to expand rocket launches from the California coast was rejected by a state commission this week, with some officials expressing concerns over Elon Musk’s political activities and the labor practices at his companies.

The California Coastal Commission voted Thursday against the plan, which would have allowed SpaceX to increase rocket launches to 50 per year. This decision came despite assurances from Space Force and Air Force officials that they would intensify efforts to monitor the environmental impact of the launches, particularly on wildlife. The military also pledged to address the disruptive effects of sonic booms, which can affect up to 100 miles of coastline.

While the commission praised military officials for working out a deal, some members raised concerns about Musk, the owner of SpaceX, before ultimately rejecting the proposal. These concerns included Musk’s involvement in the presidential race, his promotion of conspiracy theories, the labor practices at his companies, and derogatory remarks he has made about the transgender community.

“We’re dealing with a company, the head of which has aggressively injected himself into the presidential race,” said commission Chair Caryl Hart.

Military officials argued that SpaceX launches, which take place at Vandenberg Space Force Base, serve federal military purposes, regardless of whether the payloads are government-related or for Musk’s private satellite internet venture, Starlink. Because of this, they claimed that Space Force does not need permits from the California Coastal Commission, only an agreement to mitigate the environmental effects of the launches.

However, some commissioners have questioned whether SpaceX launches, especially those carrying Starlink equipment—which accounts for up to 87% of flights—should be classified as private activities. If so, Musk’s company would need to secure permission from the commission for launches involving private payloads.

Military representatives have approached the commission multiple times this year to request an increase in the number of SpaceX launches. They also plan to request another expansion—up to 100 launches annually—early next year. Yet, Musk’s growing social media presence and his influence on national and global matters have raised concerns among commission members about SpaceX’s increasing role in California.

“This company is owned by the richest person in the world, with direct control over what could become the most expansive communication system on the planet,” said Commissioner Mike Wilson. “Just last week, that person was discussing political retribution.”

Wilson questioned how the commission could be assured that the launches serve U.S. interests when most payloads benefit a private company.