I wonder how much of this initial reaction is in response to some of the (imo) irresponsible speculation about the possible costs involved. Last time a President proposed a space initiative, NASA said the country would have to sell the farm to fund it.

My gut feeling is that the public will be much more receptive once assured that wheelbarrows full of money aren't going to be tossed at the effort.

And I think O'Keefe just might be the right mix of dreamer and bean-counter to get the job done. I've been impressed by the passion for discovery he's displayed in interviews and press conferences.