Political Quotes

“I intend to vote for cloture on the motion to proceed to Senator Frist's bill this morning because I believe it is imperative that we move the debate on human cloning forward. The lightening pace of scientific and medical advances, while holding immeasurable promise, often leaves society unprepared to answer the moral and ethical questions that follow. The technology used to clone 'Dolly' the now famous Scottish sheep, somatic cell nuclear transfer, clearly should not be used to clone a human child; this is neither a moral nor medically ethical procedure. Yet it is clear that the scope of possibility for this new technology has not been fully explored. It may hold the potential to develop new lifesaving therapies for diseases that have historically plagued mankind. Can we close the door on new opportunities to heal cancer patients, those afflicted with Alzheimers, or burn victims? Few of us in this body have background in science, medicine, or medical ethics. Yet we are being asked to make decisions that have tremendous consequences for the lives of every American. We are being asked to examine some of our fundamental beliefs about life and the ethical use of science. We must be exceedingly cautious before legislating in an area we admittedly know little about. I commend Senator Frist for his leadership in bringing this issue before the Senate.”