In sci.space.tech Bill Bogen wrote:
Two interesting quotes from Prez. Bush's speech:
"We will begin the effort quickly, using existing programs and
personnel.... We'll make steady progress, one mission, one voyage, one
landing at a time."

Assuming an incremental approach, even if the grand program (new
vehicle and eventual Mars landing) falls by the wayside, what small,
initial steps can be taken before political momentum fades?

Several 50m or so contracts for developing a cheap expendable?
$10K/lb really, really limits things.
Spend ten billion on space, and you might get 300 tonnes launched, being
quite optimistic.

Drop launch costs tenfold by investing in new launch vehicles, and
you might get 3000 tonnes for the same money.