Obama lifts stem cell ban

Saying that “medical miracles do not happen simply by accident,” Presidet Barack Obama lifted restrictions on funding for human embryonic stem cell research this morning.

Obama fulfilled a campaign promise when he signed an executive order expected to set in motion increased research that supporters believe could uncover cures for serious ailment from diabetes to paralysis.

In 2001, President George W. Bush limited the use of taxpayer money to only the 21 stem cell lines that had been produced before his decision, arguing that he was defending human life because days-old embryos are destroyed for the stem cells. Ironically, the embryos used in stem cell research are typically from fertility-clinic leftovers otherwise destined to be thrown away.

“Rather than furthering discover, our government has forced what I believe is a false choice between sound science and moral values,” Obama said. “In this case, I believe the two are not inconsistent. As a person of faith, I believe we are called to care for each other and work to ease human suffering. I believe we have been given the capacity and will to pursue this research and the humanity and conscience to do so responsibly.”

Rep. Eric Cantor, the No. 2 Republican in the House, said the decision may open the door to other highly controversial practices.

“Frankly, federal funding of embryonic stem cell research can bring on embryo harvesting, perhaps even human cloning,” he said Sunday on CNN’s “State of the Union.”

Obama took care to emphasize that the order would not “open the door” to allow human cloning, which he said is “dangerous, profoundly wrong and has no place in our society, or any society.”

Embryonic stem cells are master cells that can become any type of cell in the body. Because of this unique ability, scientists hope to harness them to create replacement tissues to treat a variety of diseases, such as new insulin-producing cells for diabetic cells or new nerve connections to restore movement after spinal injury.