A quick, easy way to grill candidates on science policy

Where do the candidates on your November ballot stand when it comes to support for basic research, climate change, energy and health policies, education, and other issues involving science and technology?   Sixteen prominent science and engineering organizations, including the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the American Physical Society, IEEE, and the American Institute of Physics, have developed a questionnaire and sent it to every Congressional candidate across the nation.  And they've made it easy for you to do the same. Just go to the Science and Engineers for America Web site, type in your zip code to see who's running in your area, and shoot them the questions in an email.

The questions:

1. Innovation. Science and technology have been responsible for half of the growth of the American economy since World War II. But several recent reports question America’s continued leadership in these vital areas. What policies would you support to ensure that America remains the world leader in innovation?
2. Climate Change. The Earth’s climate is changing and there is concern about the potentially adverse effects of these changes on life on the planet. What is your position on the following measures that have been proposed to address global climate change—a cap-and-trade system, a carbon tax, increased fuel-economy standards, and research? Are there other policies you would support?
3. Energy. Many scientists and policymakers say energy security and sustainability are major problems facing the United States this century. What policies would you support to meet the demand for energy while ensuring an economically and environmentally sustainable future?
4. Education.A comparison of 15-year-olds in 30 wealthy nations found that average science scores among U.S. students ranked 17th, while average U.S. math scores ranked 24th. What role do you think the federal government should play in preparing K-12 students for the science and technology driven 21st Century?
5. Water. Thirty-nine states expect some level of water shortage over the next decade, and scientific studies suggest that a majority of our water resources are at risk. What policies would you support to meet demand for water resources?
6. Research. For many years, Congress has recognized the importance of science and engineering research to realizing our national goals. Given that the next Congress will likely face spending constraints, what priority would you give to investment in basic research in upcoming budgets?
7. Health. Americans are increasingly concerned with the cost, quality, and availability of health care. How do you see science, research, and technology contributing to improved health and quality of life?

Candidates' responses will be posted on the SHARP Network, a wiki hosted by Science and Engineers for America that tracks where elected officials and candidates stand on science policy issues. SEA has been urging scientists and engineers to run for public office at all levels, from local school boards to the House, Senate, and, heck, even the presidency, although it looks like they'll have to wait a few years for that one.  See this commentary by executive director Lesley Stone in the March/April 08 issue of symmetry.