Editorial, Opinion Piece Discuss Possible Obama Policy Change To Allow Funding For Embryonic Stem Cell Research

Main Category: Stem Cell Research
Also Included In: Women's Health / Gynecology
Article Date: 26 Nov 2008 - 9:00 PST

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The Tennessean on Monday published an editorial and an opinion piece examining issues related to embryonic stem cell research.

~ Tennessean: If President-elect Barack Obama issues an executive order to overturn the Bush administration's ban on federal funding for embryonic stem cell research, the way in which he addresses the issue "could be an early sign as to his effectiveness as president," according to the editorial. The editorial says, "The new president would be wise first to thoroughly explain his reasoning for the decision but also do so in ways that persuade, not just inform." The editorial continues that Obama "should also highlight the views of prominent Republicans" who support the research, including former first lady Nancy Reagan and former Sen. Bill Frist (Tenn.). According to the editorial, "Polls have shown that a majority of Americans believe the government should ease current restrictions on the research. The more the new president can illuminate a consensus on the issue the better his efforts will be." It adds, "If Obama wants to make stem cell research a priority, he should make his decision look as inclusive as possible," concluding, "A contentious start on a controversial issue would not be a good way to begin a presidency" (Tennessean, 11/24).

~ Joy Riley, Tennessean: In the opinion piece, Riley -- executive director of the Tennessee Center for Bioethics and Culture -- discusses her opposition to embryonic stem cell research and cites the United Kingdom's regulations on the research as why Obama should not reverse the U.S. funding ban. Citing the "trajectory" of British laws that have gradually lessened restrictions regarding cloning and the use of embryos, Riley writes, "Disrespect for life shown at one point becomes disrespect at every point. We emulate Britain's changes at our peril." She continues, "In using the vulnerable to save those of us not confined to Petri dishes, we are sacrificing more than microscopic cell clumps" (Riley, Tennessean, 11/24).

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