"Now is the time for that action. In updating the data and analysis from our previous report, all indications are that the competitiveness challenges confronting the United States have only intensified."
"When AeA issued its first report on American competitiveness over two years ago it sent shockwaves through the halls of Congress, corporate boardrooms, and university classrooms across America," said Rep. Anna G. Eshoo (D-California). "The data in this new report confirms that the U.S. can no longer take for granted its dominance in global technology and
innovation. This is an urgent call for action by Congress and we must heed the call."
"As Congresswoman Eshoo's comments confirm, policymakers in Washington and business leaders around the country now understand the nature of the problem and the need to act on it," added Archey. "And the consensus is bipartisan. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is actively promoting the Democratic Innovation Agenda. And President Bush has outlined the American Competitiveness Initiative. In fact, the President and the Speaker seem very much on the same page regarding competitiveness. Their plans differ only in the details, not in the direction."
"Two years ago, AeA called the United States the proverbial frog in the pot of water, oblivious to the slowly rising temperature of a world catching up to us. Today, the heat is still rising and we are still in the pot. There is hope that we are finally feeling the heat and are poised to do something about it. Hope, but not certainty. AeA hopes that this report helps provide the urgency for doing something now."
"We call on Democratic and Republican legislators, as well as the Bush Administration, to act in the 110th Congress on what was essentially agreed on but did not pass in the 109th: comprehensive legislation to advance American competitiveness in a global economy. This legislation would provide a crucial first step. But make no mistake; dealing with these challenges successfully is a long-term proposition."
