Griffin and public affairs policy

NASA Administrator Mike Griffin answered press questions in a telecon today, many of which centered on the update of the agency's public affairs policy. There's been quite a brouhaha after scientists complained of being punished for speaking out, prompting a statement of openness from Griffin, as well as what he called clearer guidelines for public affairs employees. Even though a public affairs officer is not required to be present at interviews - and some reporters made it clear that they felt as if they were stuck with a babysitter - Griffin said he recommends that a public affairs person be there as an intermediary and to record the interview. "I myself do not like to do interviews without a professional present, because this is not my profession," Griffin said. While NASA employees may speak to the press, they are encouraged to coordinate such conversations with bosses and public affairs.

The signal, then, seems a bit mixed. No babysitter is required, but one is recommended. The question is how invisible the babysitter is. Can we microwave popcorn and listen to CDs till midnight, or do we go to bed at 8 without hearing what we want to hear?

Interesting tidbit: Spokesman Dean Acosta said there are five political appointees among 300 public affairs employees agency-wide.

As for the state of the shuttle, which is still working through foam and other problems as it aims for a July launch, Griffin summed it up this way: "We think we're closing in on being good to go."