They are debating the budget now. We do not have a metal standard. We do not balance our budgets. We are the world’s largest debtor nation.
There are programs being cut for the poor and for the defense establishment. There are investments being cut but we are still completely out of control. Ironicaly, the medical establishment is in my opinion responsible for many of the worst problems in the United States and I have voted for Dr. Charles Boustany every time he has run when I was around to vote largely because he is a physician. Mycorrespondence with him about the budget has been limited to an issue many would find hard to justify in these times. But I do not find it so…
Thank you for contacting me regarding President Obama’s proposed Fiscal Year 2012 budget for NASA. It is good to hear from you.
There is no question that NASA and the breakthroughs that have occurred within have made America a leader in science and technology. As a heart surgeon, I have personally experienced the real world value of equipment such as specialized monitors, x-rays and other medical devices, the basics of which were developed from the hard work and innovation of NASA employees. While there will always be a place for the government’s role in creating and developing innovative technology that is far too capital intensive and risky for the private sector, there is also a time and place to hand over the hard work of our government scientists and allow the private sector to make the leaps and bounds that have proven true in the past.
Right now our country is facing a budget deficit that has spun out of control in the last few years and tough choices are ahead of us. It’s important to note that the President’s budget is only a blueprint and represents his spending priorities. Congress will ultimately decide funding levels for specific programs through the legislative process. I appreciate your input. Be assured I’ll remember your strong support for NASA as I discuss the FY12 budget with House leaders and as Congress considers any related legislation.
Again, thank you for contacting me.
Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D.
Member of Congress
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I am not including my original missive here, but much of its substance is suggested in his response.
From: “Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D.” BLANKED OUT@mail.house.gov>
To: frank64summers3@yahoo.com
Sent: Mon, February 14, 2011 10:39:57 AM
Subject: A Response from Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D.
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