President Trump suddenly announced that he was withdrawing billionaire Isaacman, an ally of Mr. Musk, from the list of candidates for NASA director without giving a reason.

“After careful consideration of past contacts, I am withdrawing my nomination of Jared Isaacman to lead NASA. I will soon announce a new nominee who is aligned with the mission and puts America first in space,” US President Donald Trump posted on social media on June 1.

President Trump’s sudden removal of Isaacman from the list of nominees for director of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) surprised many people, as the billionaire had been proposed for the position by Elon Musk. After many delays, the US Senate was supposed to hold a vote to approve Isaacman this week.

Jared Isaacman at Capitol Hill on April 9. Photo: Reuters

Mr. Trump and the White House did not explain further about the decision.

Commenting on the withdrawal of his nomination, Isaacman said there are many talented, dedicated, patriotic and deeply interested people who would like to lead NASA. He also thanked President Trump, the Senate and those who supported him earlier.

Musk was disappointed that his ally Isaacman was snubbed from the NASA leadership post, a source familiar with the matter said. “It’s rare to find someone as competent and kind as him,” Musk wrote about Isaacman on social media platform X.

The Trump administration has not announced a new candidate to replace Isaacman. However, multiple sources revealed that Mr. Trump is considering nominating retired general Steven Kwast, who has endorsed him, to lead NASA.