I appreciate your support of my R&D priorities, especially as enunciated at the recent release of the Administration's White Paper, "Technology and Economics Growth: Producing Real Results for the American People."

American history clearly demonstrates the importance of American leadership in science and technology to the future of our nation. Investments in science and technology drive economic growth, generate new knowledge, create new jobs, build new industries, ensure sustained economic and national security, and improve our quality of life. Indeed, over the past 50 years, innovation has accounted for as much as half of the nation's economic growth. Today, millions of Americans hold high-skilled, high-wage jobs in industries that have grown as a result of far-sighted public and private investment in R&D.

We are committed to balancing the budget. But we need to do so in a way that reflects our core national values and lays the foundation for continued economic growth. That is why any forward-looking balanced budget must maintain vital investments in science and technology.

In the Continuing Resolution enacted yesterday, Congress and I agreed to achieve a balanced budget that, among a series of important requirements, will "protect future generations," education, and the environment. Each of these important goals requires the steady advance of science and technology.

That is why we cannot let stand Congressional budget proposals that cut federal spending on non-defense research and development, including both basic and applied research, by a third over the next seven years (as calculated by the American Association for the Advancement of Science) and gut or eliminate critical technology programs that are enhancing America's ability to compete and win in the global marketplace.

Together we can ensure that the budget is balanced in a way that secures the foundation of future economic growth and prosperity. In the global economy, investments in science and technology mean jobs, economic growth, and increased living standards. These investments mean opportunity -- and the opportunity for families to prosper. Maintaining U.S. leadership in science and technology is vital to securing our future.

Sincerely,

(Signature, "Bill")

The Honorable Thomas A. Daschle
Democratic Leader
United States Senate
Washington, D.C. 20510