The time has come for someone with a scientific background to be President of the United States.  The typical background of law and business has been overrepresented and has become cumbersome.  A scientific mind in the White House would bring a new perspective and increased focus on areas that need more attention.  Climate change, stem-cell research, increased NASA funding, etc.

President Carolyn Porco and Vice-President Lawrence Krauss.  President Neil deGrasse Tyson and Vice-President Jane Goodall.  The mere thought of this is encouraging.  At the same time, it seems highly unlikely that as a country we will be comfortable with something this outside of the traditional and the expected.  Despite the complaints, people seem comfortable with the status quo and expecting high public offices to be filled with lawyers and those with business backgrounds.  There is a level of comfort with the status quo and people would likely be more focused on the change and how uncomfortable it makes them instead of what good will come from a change in the status quo.  

The focus on a candidates religious background would also be decreased with scientific candidates.  Many scientists will state that science and scientific progress is their religion.  Their body of work will represent any theological point of view.  Supporters and critics alike would be focusing on their body of work and field of study instead of where they go on Sunday mornings.  This will re-focus an often unnecessary discussion.

It’s time for less MBA’s and J.D’s and more Ph.D’s in STEM related fields.  Bring on the President GEEK.