Talent takes bold stand on stem cells

To the editor:

I applaud U.S. Sen. Jim Talent's new position on stem-cell research. It takes a brave man to take a stand against members of his own party and religious opponents. Polls have shown that the majority of Missourians favor this research. By changing his position, he is making a bipartisan statement that he truly represents views of the constituents in his state and is supporting their views. He should not be blasted by the media or accused of flip-flopping on the issue but commended for investigating the research and deciding to do the right thing.

At some point in life, everyone or at least someone they love may be affected by a life-threatening illness that this research holds the promise to cure. Senator Talent is showing that he is pro-life by supporting this research. Is it not just as important to save lives as it is to create them?

I was disheartened to read in several newspapers this weekend about Democrats who are using Talent's change of heart to further their own political agendas. Why would such people do this when he is coming out with support for an issue they wish to promote? The mudslinging has begun, and I hope people realize it for what it is. I hope the people of Missouri who favor this research congratulate and commend Senator Talent for what he has done. Ninety-nine percent of the time, the hard thing to do and the right thing to do are the same. Thank you, Senator Talent.

DAVID LANDEWEE, Liberty, Mo.