He was noted for being a strong supporter of federally funded research.[1][11] Droegemeier would be the first OSTP Director who is not a physicist.[7] Reaction to the nomination from the scientific community was generally positive.[3][11] Previous OSTP Director John Holdren called the nomination "a solid choice",[7][11] and American Association for the Advancement of Science CEO and former Democratic Congressman Rush Holt expressed approval of the nomination.[4] On September 5, 2018, the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation voted unanimously to approve Droegemeier's nomination.[12] Droegemeier was confirmed by the Senate on January 2, 2019, the final day of the 115th United States Congress.[6][13] He was sworn in officially on January 11, 2019 and then ceremonially by Vice President Mike Pence on February 11, 2019.[14]