Stem Cell Research
Group Gets Dramatic Jump on Pro-Lifers The stem cell research industry
in Massachusetts got a dramatic jump yesterday on those who oppose
the use of cells from embryos by inviting the candidates for Governor
(Republican Kerry Healey, Independent Christy Mihos and Democrats
Tom Riley and Deval Patrick) to a lunchtime forum. The first event of
the year drew the entire press corps to the meeting sponsored by the
Massachusetts Biotechnology Council, the organization headed by Tom
Finneran, former Speaker of the House, who resigned a few years ago
when he was offered more than $400,000/year to lead the group (For
Full Story- Click
Here) which represents those who wish to use the embryo
cells even though research shows that it is not necessary to use cells
from aborted fetuses. The luncheon was
hosted by Finneran. Republican candidate
Healey volunteered to the group that the state should continue to
encourage and develop embryonic stem cell research with tax credits
and specialized institutions. She also told the groupshe is “extremely pro-choice” and said: “If you manage to get me
elected governor, I’ll attend any meeting you want.” The only candidate
who appeared to show some independence and not be awed by the group
was Tom Reilly who did not even agree to appoint a “point person”
to meet with businesses in the state. “I have to tell you, I’m a hands-on
person. I’ll be my own point person. You can call it whatever you
want.”
