Space Goals vs. Earth Goals

With his speech proclaiming a lunar base and a trip to Mars as goals for America’s space program, George Bush’s vision of presidential leadership comes into focus (Part I, July 21). It is one of Potemkin politics, a grand facade of great intentions thrown up to hide a paralysis of will. Although Bush cannot offer us a clue about how to reduce the present deficit, and while even basic scientific research withers on the vine for lack of funding, and the health of America’s poor deteriorates due to decimated public health budgets, he proposes that we embark on an extravagantly expensive space expedition.

We deserve more from a President than mere rhetoric devoid of reason or responsibility. Great visions may be part of being a great leader, but without the courage to make hard choices, to face national problems head on and offer solutions, there is no leadership at all.

CAREY P. SUBLETTE

Riverside