Of the leading nations, I think the United States has traditionally been at the top of the heap in science and innovation. They have not only a world-leading knowledge generation capacity, but also the capacity to turn brilliant ideas and concepts into vibrant companies in the marketplace. The U.S. has been a leader in that.
It's interesting that over the last few years there's been a recognition that the U.S. government has moved the Office of Science and Technology Policy, which is where the science advisor lives, out of the White House and away from the seat of power. Many communities have reflected that it hasn't really been a good thing. There is now a very powerful independent committee in the United States that is arguing--and this is supported by two of the candidates--to move the OSTP back into the White House. Then the science advisor would have greater access to the ear of the President, for example, and more influence.