Political interference in federal government science threatens our nation’s ability to respond to complex public health, environmental, and national security challenges. We need strong leadership and an unwavering commitment to the highest standards of scientific integrity from our next president to protect the independence of federal science.

Science Debate 2008 is a concerned citizens’ initiative to hold a presidential science policy debate in April in Philadelphia before the Pennsylvania primary. This debate is an important step to get presidential candidates to talk about their views on the environment, health, medicine and how they plan to use science to inform their policies. This way we can be sure that the next administration starts off on the right foot.

This effort has been endorsed by over 35,000 scientists, engineers and concerned citizens, 140 leading U.S. universities and other organizations and several members of Congress from both parties.

Given the many urgent scientific and technological challenges facing our country and the rest of the world, the increasing need for accurate scientific information in political decision making, and the vital role scientific innovation plays in spurring economic growth and competitiveness, I call on the presidential candidates to participate in Science Debate 2008 on April 18.

WAYNE FLICK
Grand Junction

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