The Senate gave a lopsided majority to embryonic stem-cell research funding yesterday, issuing a challenge to President Bush, who has placed limits on a process that holds great medical promise. The 63-37 vote was four votes short of being veto-proof, but together with last year’s vote in the House, it should send a clear message to the president that a bipartisan majority of Congress favors this critical advance in science.
The president is expected to veto the bill, and fast, but efforts were underway to change his mind. California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger wrote, “I urge you not to make the first veto of your presidency one that turns America backwards on the path of scientific progress and limits the promise of medical miracles for generations to come.”
Scientists believe embryonic stem-cell research holds unique medical potential and one day could lead to cures for such diseases as diabetes, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Given that the bill proposes to use embryos left over from fertility clinics and destined for disposal anyway, they should be acceptable research tools.
Bush opposes the use of embryonic stem cells because extraction of the cells destroys the embryo foundation for a potential life. The embryos used in research are microscopic in nature, smaller than a pinhead, and without human characteristics.
The House approved stem-cell reform 238-194 in May 2005 – also shy of the two-thirds needed to override a veto. Democrats in Colorado’s delegation – Reps. Dianna DeGette, Mark Udall and John Salazar – voted for the bill. Arrayed against it were Republican Reps. Joel Hefley, Tom Tancredo, Bob Beauprez and Marilyn Musgrave.
DeGette is co-author of the House effort, along with GOP Rep. Mike Castle of Delaware, and they fought hard to build the large majority that achieved Congress’ OK. Former First Lady Nancy Reagan was a vocal and influential advocate and deserves plaudits for speaking out.
In Tuesday’s debate, Utah GOP Sen. Orrin Hatch said there was no more pro-life measure than an expansion of embryonic stem-cell research for medical science.
We hope his logic will prevail with President Bush, and if not, we hope lawmakers will have the numbers and the courage to override the veto. If not, the effort will surely resume with a new Congress in 2007.
