Robert Wexler: “I am outraged that President Bush has single handedly stifled the advancement of medical research that could provide…”

“I am outraged that President Bush has single handedly stifled the advancement of medical research that could provide cures for millions of Americans who are suffering needlessly from a wide range of debilitating diseases. President Bush's decision to use his veto power for the first time in his Presidency on this historic piece of legislation is unconscionable and a misguided attempt to pander to the extreme base in his party. The tireless efforts made by the scientific community, stem cell advocates and supportive Members of Congress finally came to fruition when this body passed the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act (H.R. 810). This legislation, supported by a majority of Americans, expands the embryonic stem cell lines available for conducting research and allows the federal government to fund this type of undertaking. Stem cell research (including embryonic stem cell research) offers incredible hope to the sufferers of diseases like Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis, cancer and diabetes. Embryonic stem cells are derived from donated embryos that are not used during the process of in-vitro fertilization and would otherwise be discarded. Many scientists believe that embryonic stem cells have greater potential than adult stem cells because they can differentiate into any specialized cell in the body. Additionally, they can be administered to patients without fear of rejection or the need for expensive immunosuppressive drugs.…”