Remarks by the President at a Campaign Event: Melbourne, Florida (Excerpt)

Charles and Ruth Clemente Center, Florida Institute of Technology, Melbourne, Florida

“Here on the Space Coast, we started a new era of American exploration that is creating good jobs right here in this county. (Applause.) We’ve begun an ambitious new direction for NASA by laying the groundwork for 21st century space flight and innovation. And just last month, we witnessed an incredible achievement that speaks to the nation’s sense of wonder and our can-do spirit — the United States of America landing Curiosity on Mars. (Applause.)

So this is an example of what we do when we combine our science, our research, our ability to commercialize new products, making them here in America.

So this is where we’ve got a choice. We could, as the House Republican budget proposes, cut back on research and technology.

AUDIENCE: No!

THE PRESIDENT: Or we can continue to be at the cutting-edge — because that’s what we’ve always been about. We can spark new discoveries, launch new careers, inspire the next generation to reach for something better. You’ve got that choice. We can make sure that not only are we investing in great research, but the products that come out of that research are made here in the United States. (Applause.)”