Political Showdown over Stem Cell Research

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Just as the world learns that researchers in South Korea have successfully extracted stem cells from cloned embryos, Congress is considering a bill a to expand the use of federal funds to harvest stem cells from new embryos. Scientists believe that this "therapeutic cloning- will be invaluable in finding cures and prevention against several diseases and disorders. As with abortion, this emotionally charged issue involves basic disagreements over the definition of life. While pro-life champion conservative Orrin Hatch favors the new legislation, President Bush vows he will use the first veto of his office to turn back the bill. Guest host Diana Nyad speaks hears more about the science, ethics and politics of stem cell research from advocates and opponents, including geneticists, doctors, and a member of the President-s Council on Bioethics. Making News: Senate Takes up Vote on Judicial Nominees Instead of today's expected "nuclear option" vote, Senators are busy working on a stem cell research bill, thanks to an eleventh hour compromise reached in John McCain's office. Seven Democrats agreed not to block confirmation of three judicial nominees they've opposed in return for seven Republicans foregoing support of a vote to eliminate the filibuster. Gail Chaddock of the Christian Science Monitor looks at the issues behind last night's compromise. Reporter's Notebook: Syria Withdraws Military and Intelligence Help from US Syria has put an end to all military and intelligence rapport with the United States. Ambassador Imad Moustapha says Damascus can no longer support Washington-s allegations that his country organizes and funds insurgency attacks in Iraq. Graham E. Fuller is the former Vice-Chairman of the National Intelligence Council at the CIA.
Guest host Diana Nyad, who was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame in 2002 as the world record-holder for the longest swim without the aid of a cage -- from Bimini to Florida, 102.5 miles! -- is a business sports columnist for Marketplace, has served as senior sports correspondent for Fox News, and has hosted her own show on CNBC. She's also the author of three books, Other Shores, Basic Training and The Keyshawn Johnson Story.

Senator Harry Reid on filibuster/judicial nominee agreement

Senator Bill Frist on judicial nominations

Chaddock's article on Senate compromise

Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2005 (HR 810)

President Bush on embryo adoption and stem cell research

Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Act of 2005 (HR 2520)

Senator Hatch on stem cell research

UCI on Hans Keirstead's research into stem cell treatment, spinal cord injury

Karolinska Institute on stem cell therapy for spinal cord injury

Credits

Host:

Warren Olney