Candidates on Space

The following from:

"http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/news/archive/2004/02/26/politics1352EST0651.DTL"

"The Associated Press chooses an issue three times a week and asks the
presidential candidates a question about it.

SPACE: Do you support the plan to return astronauts to the moon by
2020 in preparation for manned missions to Mars?

Democrats:

Sen. John Edwards: "I am a strong supporter of our space program. It
reflects the best of the American spirit of optimism, discovery and
progress. A manned mission to Mars is in the American tradition of
setting ambitious goals for exploring space, but we must be able to
pay for the program."

Sen. John Kerry: "Our civilian space program represents a great
opportunity for scientific research. Sending a person to Mars is a
great mission worthy of a great nation like America. Given the Bush
budget deficit, it is imperative that we balance funding for a manned
mission to Mars against critical domestic needs as well, such as
education and health care."

Rep. Dennis Kucinich: "An International Space Station in Earth orbit
is a far more practical launch platform than a base on the moon. So,
if we as a nation decide to send manned missions to Mars, I would not
support construction of a lunar base. In regard to space exploration,
we are faced with an unprecedented national deficit and a war without
end, both of which will force this nation to abandon many hopes,
dreams and aspirations, including space exploration, if allowed to
continue."

Al Sharpton: No response.

Republican:

President Bush: No response."

- Ed Kyle