The national news tends to focus on short term issues or problems, with an emphasis on stories about political conflict or current economic indicators. These short term issues and news stories are important and have an immediate impact on us, but the focus of this blog and the associated web site on America's Future: 2020-2050 is on the long term.
Long range national priorities for the U.S. ought to include – ensuring national security, providing clean and affordable energy, protecting the environment now and for future generations, educating an engaged citizenry and a capable workforce for the 21st century, improving our health care system, maintaining a leadership position in global economic competitiveness, and working internationally to build a safer world. A common element across all these urgent priorities is the key role that research and development (R&D) and technological innovation will play in solving problems and advancing our national interests across the board.
What other key long range national priorities should be added to this list? Again, think long term - 10 years out at least.
