Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney issued a space policy white paper over the weekend in which he pledged to rebuild NASA and invigorate American space exploration with new leadership and opportunities in space commerce.
The eight page document pledged changes without additional spending.
“America’s space program lies at the intersection of so many important priorities, from technological innovation and economic growth to national security to international leadership,” wrote Romney. “We must never waiver in our commitment to this strategic national asset.”
The former Massachusetts governor was silent on specific goals, but vowed to establish the priorities and mission objectives through consultations with the U. S. Air Force, leading universities, and the private sector as well as NASA.
The white paper release coincided with a speech on the topic by vice presidential running mate Paul Ryan on Saturday in Orlando, Fla.
Florida is a battleground state in what pollsters consider a close election.