Trump drops National Park Service director pick

By Heather Richards | 04/28/2026 06:30 AM EDT

The National Park Service faces a leadership vacuum ahead of a busy summer of celebrations for the nation’s 250th birthday.

Scott Socha in front of a microphone.

Scott Socha, speaking as chair of the National Park Hospitality Association, on Capitol Hill on May 26, 2021. President Donald Trump dropped his nomination of Socha to lead NPS on Monday. Francis Chung/POLITICO

The Trump administration on Monday formally withdrew its nomination of Scott Socha to lead the National Park Service, in a response to a request from the nominee.

Socha said Monday in a statement to POLITICO’s E&E News that he withdrew his name from consideration in March for “personal reasons.”

“I am grateful to the President and the Secretary of the Interior for the confidence placed in me and appreciative of the consideration shown throughout the nomination process,” he said. A White House official confirmed Monday that Socha withdrew his candidacy.

Advertisement

Socha added: “I remain committed to the stewardship of America’s National Parks and to providing outstanding guest experiences for all visitors.”

GET FULL ACCESS