“I was appalled to read in today's New York Times that Governor Romney will oppose the efforts of world-renowned scientists and medical researchers to conduct stem cell research in Massachusetts . In taking this position, Governor Romney allies himself with the same supporters of President Bush's far-right ideology. As we all know, even conservatives like Nancy Reagan have spoken out against the Bush/Romney stem cell research policy, because they understand that millions of lives are at stake in this important debate.
“Beyond this, of course, are the economic stakes, which could not be higher. Massachusetts has been a world center for medical research for decades; Governor Romney's policy would subvert our prominence in this field in one swoop. States like California and Wisconsin are investing hundreds of millions of dollars in pushing for stem cell research because they understand the economic dividends which will be realized for their state in the future.
“Governor Romney's position flies in the face of his stated commitment of stem cell research, which he made on June 13, 2002 at a Brandeis University forum on biomedical research when he said, ‘I am in favor of stem cell research . I will work and fight for stem cell research . I'd be happy to talk to [President Bush] about this, though I don't know if I could budge him an inch.' (1) This is yet another example of Mitt Romney's saying one thing during the campaign season and doing the opposite as Governor.
“Stem cell research should not be a partisan issue. Many Republicans share the commitment Senate President Travaglini has made in expanding research in this area in Massachusetts . I hope the Governor's political allies will use their influence to change his position on this important issue which affects the lives of so many in Massachusetts .”
(1)Boston Globe, 06/14/2002 . “Romney Endorses Stem Cell Research, Is Silent On Cloning”
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