Trump Nominates Scott Socha to Lead National Park Service

President Donald Trump has nominated Scott Socha, the president of parks and resorts at Delaware North, to lead the National Park Service (NPS). Socha's nomination comes after a prolonged period without a Senate-confirmed director, following the departure of Chuck Sams at the end of the Biden administration. His appointment requires Senate confirmation.

The Hill

Delaware North is a major player in the hospitality industry, particularly within national parks, where it provides lodging, dining, and retail services. The company operates in several national parks, including Yosemite and Yellowstone, and has been involved in contentious legal disputes with the NPS regarding concessions contracts and trademark rights. Notably, Delaware North lost its contract to operate concessions at Yosemite in 2016, leading to a protracted legal battle that concluded in 2019 with a settlement involving the transfer of trademarks to the new concessionaire, Aramark.

Concessionaire Nominated To Run National Park ServiceThe Hill

The nomination of Socha has raised concerns among conservation groups, particularly the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA). Theresa Pierno, NPCA's President and CEO, emphasized the urgent need for leadership that prioritizes the mission of the Park Service and addresses significant staffing losses—approximately 25% of permanent staff since January 2025. Pierno stated that Socha must "put the Park Service’s mission first, stand up for park staff, fill critical vacancies and halt attacks on our nation’s history."

National Parks Conservation AssociationThe HillConcessionaire Nominated To Run National Park Service

Critics of Socha's nomination point to his ties with Delaware North, a company that has previously engaged in disputes with the NPS. The NPCA has expressed skepticism about whether Socha can effectively advocate for park staff and the preservation of national parks, given his corporate background. The organization has called for strong leadership to reverse the damage inflicted on park staff and resources over the past year.

National Parks Conservation Association

In response to the nomination, the NPCA has articulated its hope that Socha will leverage his experience to lead effectively. Pierno remarked, "Our national parks need strong, sensible leadership now more than ever before. Given Mr. Socha’s years of experience working with the Park Service, we hope he will be that leader."

National Parks Conservation Association

Socha's nomination will proceed to the Senate for confirmation, where it will be scrutinized by lawmakers and stakeholders concerned about the future direction of the National Park Service. The outcome of this nomination could significantly influence the management and preservation of national parks in the United States.

National Parks Conservation Association

• “The Park Service Director must reverse course on the damage that’s been done to parks and park staff over the last year.” — Theresa Pierno, President and CEO, National Parks Conservation Association

National Parks Conservation Association

• “Our national parks need strong, sensible leadership now more than ever before.” — Theresa Pierno, President and CEO, National Parks Conservation Association

National Parks Conservation Association