Obama Speech Touts US Innovation

President Obama on Wednesday traveled to Elkhart (IN) to unveil $2.4 billion in competitive grants to spur manufacturing and deployment of next-generation batteries and electric vehicles. During his remarks, he emphasized the historic commitment to innovation made as part of the $787 billion stimulus package. He said the stimulus creates jobs by "doubling [the nation's] capacity to generate renewable energy; building a new smart grid that carry electricity from coast to coast; laying down broadband lines and high-speed rail lines; and providing the largest boost in basic research in history." His goal is to ensure the continuation of America's leadership position in the breakthrough discoveries of the 21st century.