Rep Gordon 'groveling' to get science funding passed in Senate

House Science Committee Chairman Bart Gordon (D-TN) said he is lobbying Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid to prioritize the America Competes Act, which would provide $85.6 billion over five years for science research and education.

"I'm going to be groveling with him to get this passed," he said, describing his push to renew the funding as a "call to action" to keep the nation competitive. "It's going to be difficult but it's important that we get funding in the fall." Noting that the same funding cleared with large majorities three years ago, Gordon said the bill's challenges are indicative of Congress's hyperpartisan climate. He also said his own push to showcase the private sector's support for the bill through hearings slowed down the process. The America Competes Act has support from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Business Roundtable.