Democratic Presidential candidate Barack Obama pledged pro-active involvement in the Space Exploration Program, and included $2 billion additional funding for NASA in his congressional plan.

“I believe NASA needs an inspirational vision for the 21st Century,” Obama said. “My vision will build on the great goals set forth in recent years, to maintain a robust program of human space exploration and ensure the fulfillment of NASA’s mission.”

In a policy paper, released on Sunday by his campaign, Obama expressed his commitment to “closing the gap” between the space shuttle’s retirement and the debut of Constellation program, as well as minimize dependence on foreign space capabilities. He also said that he was hoping "to ensure retention of" thousands of NASA workers in Texas and Florida whose jobs are endangered by a probable five-year gap before the beginning of the Constellation program to send astronauts to the moon and Mars.

On Sunday, Republicans scoffed at Obama’s latest statement and said he is trying to please voters to remain competitive in the state of Florida, which is home to the Kennedy Space Center.

“Obama’s shifting stance on space exploration is indicative of his inexperience on issues important to voters,” said Republican National Committee spokesman Alex Conant. “Let’s be honest: Obama is only embracing NASA now because of his political problems in Florida.”