No, not in the states, alas. At least not so publicly. Here's a clip of Paul Keating, prime minster of Australia 1991-1998 and a long time political figure down under, discussing this very topic. In the context of a lengthy interview, Keating flummoxes his interviewer by swerving into a strongly worded support of the arts. When was the last time you heard such a wonderful rant from either side of our political aisle? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XdY1MtHwYzk
Christopher Purdy is Classical 101's early morning host, 7-10 a.m. weekdays. He is host and producer of Front Row Center – Classical 101’s weekly celebration of Opera and more – as well as Music in Mid-Ohio, Concerts at Ohio State, and the Columbus Symphony broadcast series. He is the regular pre-concert speaker for Columbus Symphony performances in the Ohio Theater.