Tell GOP about stem-cell research

To the editor:

John Kerry has called for tax-funded embryonic stem-cell research, saying President Bush's position against taxpayer funding is a triumph of "ideology over science." Kerry claimed some of the most pioneering cures and treatments are at our fingertips but blocked by the president's ban, even though some scientists have said that embryonic stem-cell research isn't the panacea for cures that Kerry claims. Kerry said one of first acts as president would be to mandate that taxpayers fund the research.

First lady Laura Bush called Kerry's criticism "ridiculous" and statement on the effectiveness of the research "wild assertions." Mr. Bush says Kerry is trying to turn a sensitive issue into a political football "without saying what's right."

To allow the funding is to open the floodgates to unscrupulous researchers too lazy and greedy to research other more successful stem-cell resources. The race will be on to find the magic cure for untold diseases and injuries and to their fortune making, killing embryos by the millions in the process.

The Republican National Committee is encouraging citizens to say what they want to be included in the convention platform. You can link to the GOP convention committee at www.gopconvention.com/contents/goplive/platform/. Now is the time to let your voice be heard about issues you feel are important.

CHRISTINE E. STEPHENS, Cape Girardeau