Over many months, I have devoted hours of study to this important issue, reflecting on my spiritual teachings, the law, the science and the ethical issues presented by embryonic stem cell research.
My conclusion was that the support of embryonic stem cell research is consistent with pro-life and pro-family values. Let me emphasize four points for you this afternoon:
First, I think that Federal support of embryonic stem cell research is a pro-life, pro-family position. This research holds out promise for more than 100 million Americans suffering from a variety of diseases including heart disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, ALS, cancer and diabetes.
Second, in the in vitro fertilization process, it is inevitable that extra embryos are created, embryos that simply will not be implanted in a mother’s womb. As these embryos sit frozen in a test tube, outside the womb, under today’s technology, there is no chance for them to develop into a person.
Third, while I understand that many in the pro-life community will disagree with me, I believe that human life begins in the womb, not a petri dish or refrigerator. It is inevitable that in the IVF process, extra embryos are created that will simply not be implanted in a mother’s womb. To me, the morality of the situation dictates that these embryos, which are routinely discarded, be used to improve and extend life. The tragedy would be in not using these embryos to save lives when the alternative is that they will be discarded.
Fourth, there is no guarantee that any stem cell research will reap the benefits we hope, but it is clear that embryonic stem cell research holds tremendous promise. Some hold out adult stem cell research as a good alternative. By all means, we should continue adult stem cell research. But, I do not believe it would be wise to cut off support for embryonic stem cell research, since many eminent scientists believe it is the more promising avenue of research.
I know this is a tremendously difficult decision for the President to make. Indeed, it has been heart-wrenching for each of us. After careful consideration, thought, prayer, and study, this pro-life Senator has concluded that federal support of embryonic stem cell research is appropriate. It is my fervent hope that the President will agree.
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