EventThomas Dans, a Texas venture capitalist with no formal science background, was appointed by President Trump as chair of the U.S. Arctic Research Commission in December. He has linked the commission to the Dutch shipbuilder Damen, called for more U.S. icebreakers, advocated a U.S. takeover of Greenland, and urged closer U.S.-Russia relations.
The U.S. Arctic Research Commission chair, Thomas Dans, appointed by Donald Trump in December 2020, has no formal science background but is pushing for icebreaker procurement, supports a U.S. takeover of Greenland, and promotes closer ties with Russia, raising questions about expertise, conflict of interest, and influence on Arctic policy.
Thomas Dans, a Texas venture capitalist with no scientific background, has chaired the U.S. Arctic Research Commission since December. His appointment has raised questions about his ties to Russia and the Dutch shipbuilder Damen Shipyards Group, and his support for President Trump’s policy on Greenland and U.S.‑Russia relations.
