Behinds Quote by Ray LaHood
“Public spending on infrastructure has fallen to its lowest level since 1947. And the U.S., which used to have the finest infrastructure in the world, is now ranked 16th according to the World Economic Forum, behind Iceland, Spain, Portugal and the United Arab Emirates.”
About This Quote
Source Report: U.S. Infrastructure Spending Statistics, 2023
America’s infrastructure investment has declined to historic lows, slipping its global ranking.
In simple terms: Infrastructure spending is at a record low, hurting competitiveness.
Key Takeaway
Advocate for increased public investment in infrastructure.
Themes
economy
public policy
competitiveness
Mood
concerned
urgent
Type
policy
analytical
When to use this quote
- City planning
- transportation projects
- budget hearings
- public‑private partnerships
Key Concepts
Fiscal policy
public goods
infrastructure decay
Questions to Reflect On
- How can citizens influence infrastructure budgeting?
- What are the long‑term costs of neglect?
A Different Perspective
Political opposition may block funding increases.
![“The Chinese are more successful [in building infrastructure] because in their country, only three people make the decision. ... In a country where only three people make the decision, they can decide where to put their rail line, get the money, and do it. We don't do it that way in America.” quote by Ray LaHood](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/4e0/ray-lahood-41377_america_the-chinese-are-more-successful-in-build_1599981.jpg)
