Trump Nominates Delaware North Exec to Lead National Park Service

Critics raise concerns over potential conflicts of interest with private concessionaire's involvement in public lands.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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President Donald Trump has nominated Scott Socha, a top executive at the hospitality company Delaware North, to serve as the next Director of the National Park Service (NPS). The nomination has drawn criticism from conservation groups due to Socha's extensive ties to the national park system through Delaware North's operations within and around numerous national and state parks.

Why it matters

The nomination of a Delaware North executive to lead the NPS raises concerns about the potential prioritization of commercial interests and revenue generation over traditional conservation efforts within the national park system. Delaware North's history of legal disputes with the NPS, as well as the administration's broader approach to national parks, have further fueled worries about the future direction of the agency.

The details

Socha currently serves as President for Parks and Resorts and Delaware North Australia, overseeing a significant portfolio of hospitality services within and around numerous national and state parks. Delaware North provides services in seven national parks and three state parks, operates the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, and owns and operates lodging in five national park gateway communities. The company has also expanded its presence in winter adventure tourism in recent years.

  • On February 14, 2026, President Trump announced Socha's nomination to lead the NPS.
  • Socha has been with Delaware North since 1999 and has steadily risen through the ranks to his current leadership role.

The players

Scott Socha

President for Parks and Resorts and Delaware North Australia, with extensive ties to the national park system through his company's operations.

Delaware North

A hospitality company that provides services in numerous national and state parks, operates visitor complexes, and owns lodging in gateway communities.

National Park Service (NPS)

The federal agency responsible for managing and preserving the United States' national parks and monuments.

Department of the Interior (DOI)

The federal department that oversees the National Park Service and other land management agencies.

President Donald Trump

The President of the United States who nominated Scott Socha to lead the National Park Service.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The Senate confirmation process for Socha's nomination to lead the National Park Service will be closely watched by environmental groups, park advocates, and members of the public concerned about the future direction of the agency.

The takeaway

The nomination of a Delaware North executive to lead the National Park Service raises concerns about the potential prioritization of commercial interests and revenue generation over traditional conservation efforts within the national park system, signaling a potential shift in the management philosophy of the agency.