Statement of U.S. Senate Candidate Sheldon Whitehouse on Expanding Federal Support for Stem Cell Research

Statement of U.S. Senate Candidate Sheldon Whitehouse on Expanding Federal Support for Stem Cell Research

Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Sheldon Whitehouse today released the following statement on legislation that will expand federal funding for vital embryonic stem cell research. Reports indicate that the Senate will vote on this measure today, and that President Bush plans to veto it.

"Stem cell research may hold the key to revolutionary new treatments that could save or improve the lives of millions of Americans. For too long, President Bush and Congressional Republicans have put ideology before science and held federal support for these potentially life-altering breakthroughs hostage to cynical, partisan politics.

"The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act lays out a responsible plan for expanding federally-supported stem cell research with strong ethical requirements governing the sources of stem cells used in federally-funded research. I've joined Congressman Jim Langevin in calling on the Senate to consider and pass this legislation as quickly as possible. President Bush should not make the mistake of putting his narrow political base before the health and hopes of those living with debilitating illnesses by vetoing this crucial measure."

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