Trump nominates Neil Jacobs amid Sharpiegate controversy

In the United States, Neil Jacobs was nominated by President Donald Trump to lead the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Jacobs had previously served in an acting capacity as NOAA's head during part of Trump's first term, particularly during the infamous incident known as 'Sharpiegate' in September 2019. During this incident, Trump altered a hurricane forecast map to inaccurately show that Hurricane Dorian threatened Alabama. Jacobs found himself embroiled in the controversy as he supported the statement backing Trump's erroneous claim while publicly criticizing NOAA meteorologists who contradicted it. An internal report later determined that Jacobs and a colleague violated NOAA's scientific integrity policy due to their involvement in this situation, although they did not face punishment. If confirmed again, Jacobs would have significant responsibilities in conducting climate research and managing weather forecasting. His nomination process was sent to the Senate for further consideration, with a previous attempt at confirmation failing to pass before the end of Trump's term. Jacobs is currently serving as the chief science advisor for the Unified Forecast System, focusing on enhancing U.S. weather forecasting accuracy and promoting collaboration among researchers.