The United States Government has filled a key role in the development and application of Machine Translation technology for over four decades. A recent study by the White House Office of Science and Technology has reaffirmed the importance of this role. Two key world events, the emergence of Internet technology and the collapse of the former Soviet Union, have stimulated rapid changes in the status of Machine Translation requirements and applications. A continuing need for Machine Translation systems in the United States military along with the application of Machine Translation systems on key United States Government networks has made Machine Translation systems available to tens of thousands of users. Advances in automating textual information processes and in testing and evaluation of the technology has further stimulated Machine Translation development and applications. Although budget reductions will impact this continuing growth, renewed cooperation will ameliorate some of the impact and the emerging widespread use of Machine Translation could reverse the budget trends. Age old arguments between linguists and Machine Translation advocates seem to be giving way to recognition of mutual dependence and the potential for Win/Win outcomes. The past five years have witnessed an accelerated exposure and application of Machine Translation technology in the United States Government unequaled in its 40 year history. However, with some budgetary adjustments, the next five years could be truly phenomenal. Advocates for Machine Translation technology and its applications are poised to meet the 21st Century and the Information Age with renewed vigor and practical applications which promise to end the debate over Machine Translation's viability forever.