Research!America Salutes President for Prioritizing Research
WASHINGTON—January 28, 2011—In his State of the Union address, President Obama emphasized the importance of investment in innovation and research for our health, our economy and our quality of life. The President set a compelling goal: "Our free enterprise system is what drives innovation. But because it's not always profitable for companies to invest in basic research, throughout history our government has provided cutting-edge scientists and inventors with the support that they need... We'll invest in biomedical research, information technology, and especially clean energy technology-an investment that will strengthen our security, protect our planet, and create countless new jobs for our people."
Research!America's board chair, former Congressman John Edward Porter (R-IL), praised President Barack Obama's 2011 State of the Union address. Porter said: "By supporting America's scientific enterprise, from taxpayer-supported basic research to industry fueled by enlightened policies that promote, rather than impede research, President Obama is 100 percent on the right track toward 'winning the future' for our nation. America's scientists are ready to respond to the challenge of innovation, with the knowledge that the public and our elected representatives are solidly behind their success. Research!America's public opinion polls have repeatedly emphasized that American citizens support heightened investment in research. Maintaining our stature as the world leader in research and innovation is at the core of American values. The State of the Union speech served as an inspiration to the researchers and entrepreneurs who lay the groundwork for American prosperity."
"We are encouraged that in his upcoming 2012 budget, President Obama will prioritize his commitment to investment in science, research and innovation, as well as a re-emphasis on science, technology, math and engineering education," said Research!America President Mary Woolley. "Our nation's health and our economy depend on it."
Research!America is the nation's largest nonprofit public education and advocacy alliance working to make research to improve health a higher national priority. Founded in 1989, Research!America is supported by member organizations that represent the voices of 125 million Americans.