Let's have a debate on science policy

Is there room for one more debate this season? A group that includes Nobel Laureates, leaders of industry, university presidents, science journalists, congresspersons, and bloggers says yes. They have a topic in mind.

Given the many urgent scientific and technological challenges facing America and the rest of the world, the increasing need for accurate scientific information in political decision making, and the vital role scientific innovation plays in spurring economic growth and competitiveness, we call for a public debate in which the U.S. presidential candidates share their views on the issues of The Environment, Health and Medicine, and Science and Technology Policy.

An informed electorate should know what the candidates think about these issues because these issues will touch us all and continue to touch us for longer than one news cycle or one election cycle. But do people care enough to sit still for another debate? And if we have a debate can we avoid having the usual idiots asking the questions? I don't think I could survive listening to Tim Russert ask his famous "tough" questions--Mr. Obama, which is your favorite element?

I have to add, even though I think this is a good idea, I would dread having my worst fears about how stupid our leaders are confirmed. We already know that two of the remaining Republican candidates don't believe in evolution. What other horrifying revelation await us?