In a speech to the National Academy of Sciences, President Barack Obama emphasized the importance of government support for scientific research, particularly in light of the flu virus outbreak that has prompted a public health emergency in the US. Obama called for a commitment to dedicating 3 percent of gross domestic product to scientific research, highlighting the essential role of the scientific and medical community in addressing public health challenges. Obama stressed the need for the US to prioritize scientific research to ensure the country does not fall behind in addressing critical issues. Obama reassured the public that US cases of swine flu were not a cause for alarm, but the administration was closely monitoring the situation. The administration stated that the declaration of a public health emergency was a precautionary measure. The flu has led to 149 deaths in Mexico and has spread to North America and Europe, sparking pandemic fears. Although no deaths have been reported outside of Mexico, concerns have been raised. Obama referenced the space race between the US and the Soviet Union in the 1950s and 1960s to emphasize the importance of investing in research. He also noted that science spending as a percentage of GDP has decreased since that time. Obama stated that by aiming to spend more than 3 percent of GDP on science, the United States will not only reach but surpass the level achieved during the space race. This goal encompasses both public and private spending. Currently, the US allocates 2.66 percent of GDP to research and development. Some of the additional funding is part of the economic stimulus package signed by Obama in February, and in his proposed fiscal 2010 budget, he suggested making tax credits for business investment in research and development permanent. The White House is emphasizing Obama's achievements as he approaches the 100-day mark of his presidency, including his efforts to address global climate change and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The administration has opened a two-day meeting on climate change with major world economies, and Obama's goal is to cut US emissions by 15 percent by 2020 through a cap-and-trade system. This proposal is a key component of a bill currently being considered in Congress. Republicans have been critical of the cap-and-trade system, calling it a sneaky way to impose an energy tax. Additionally, some moderate Democrats have expressed concerns about the potential impact of the plan on jobs and the economy.