An Unnecessary Choice

摘要

As the U.S. presidential nominating process reaches its eventual conclusion, and the intra-party commentary and debate subsides in both parties, I am hopeful the real issues underlying much of the anger and frustration expressed during this election season will find a more tempered expression. Then we can have a more focused, substantive discussion of the serious issues and concerns facing the nation. Among those will be the question of the proper role of government, and the balance between public and private sector roles in providing services and undertaking key activities. One illustrative realm in which I have specific experience in dealing with this issue is space exploration, and especially human spaceflight. As a senior staff member for the Senate Commerce Committee I had the opportunity to participate in crafting a compromise that sought just such a balance.