Our nation faces urgent challenges that can be addressed only through focused, well-funded scientific research and its application to the development of new technologies.

As the presidential election approaches, I urge voters to compare the candidates' science policies, and to ask which policies best address our country's needs.

The cost of energy is an urgent problem in Montana. Senator Obama proposes to double federal funding of energy research over the next decade to develop clean, efficient and renewable energy technology that we and future generations can depend on; for details, see barackobama.com. By contrast, Senator McCain proposes to maintain funding of research for alternative energy at its current inadequate level and to increase domestic drilling. Senator McCain is proposing largely temporary, environmentally destructive solutions that do not adequately address the simple fact that the world is running out of oil.

The strength and focus of Senator Obama's science and technology policies have gained overwhelming support from the scientific community. In a strong statement that cannot be ignored, 61 Nobel Laureates recently endorsed Senator Obama's strong commitment to science, technology and innovation to meet the nation's challenges and to drive economic growth.

Bennett Link, Ph.D., Astrophysics

1110 N. Spruce Drive

Bozeman