East Michigan News

Chairman John Moolenaar and Ranking Member Raja Krishnamoorthi, along with Rep. Jake Auchincloss and other bipartisan lawmakers, have urged Secretary of State Antony Blinken to support a federal prize competition. This initiative aims to develop satellite technology that can provide internet access to citizens in authoritarian countries or those affected by war, such as China.

In their letter, the lawmakers emphasized the importance of open forums for ideas and information. They stated, "The value of open forums for ideas and information cannot be overstated: Authoritarian governments across the globe cut off internet access to maintain coercive power and undermine freedom. Democracy can prevail through civil discourse; it does not need propaganda or disinformation like authoritarianism does, but we must provide it with the oxygen to compete."

They also highlighted the benefits of prize competitions as noted by the Office of Management and Budget and the Office of Science and Technology Policy. The lawmakers said, "According to the Office of Management and Budget and the Office of Science and Technology Policy, prize competitions benefit the federal government with specific, measurable outcomes. First, these allow federal agencies to pay only for success: competition increases cost effectiveness, stimulates private-sector investment, and maximizes the return on taxpayer dollars. Secondly, such competitions establish ambitious goals while increasing the number and diversity of individuals, organizations, and teams tackling a problem, including smaller to midsize companies that have not previously received federal funding. Lastly, these prizes underscore our commitment to some of our most deeply-held values as a democracy, inspiring the public to tackle scientific, technical, and societal problems."

Other members who signed include Reps. Neal Dunn (R-FL), Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ), and André Carson (D-IN).