I am writing today to announce the closure of the New Mexico Independent. After three and a half years of operation in New Mexico, the board of the American Independent News Network, has decided to shift publication of its news…
While environmental activists played their part yesterday during demonstrations at the capitol building, going so far as to dress up as solar panels and to sing the tune of “You Are My Sunshine,” their counterparts, the anti-cap-and-trade contingency who has…
Roughly one quarter of University of New Mexico students are unimpressed with the state’s flagship public school, according to a survey that questioned college students about their higher education experiences.
President Obama reversed a ban on federal funds for stem cell research today, ending another policy of the George W. Bush administration.
“In recent years, when it comes to stem cell research, rather than furthering discovery, our government has forced what I believe is a false choice between sound science and moral values,” Obama said before signing the bill. “In this case, I believe the two are not inconsistent.”
Obama cited the fact that most Americans “from across the political spectrum, and from all backgrounds and beliefs” believe that stem cell research should be allowed.
U.S. Sen. Tom Udall agreed, and in a press release today praised the president’s action on stem cell research.
“By signing the executive order lifting the ban on federal funding for existing embryonic stem cell research today, President Obama has reaffirmed our country’s commitment to life saving scientific discoveries and technological breakthroughs,” Udall, a Santa Fe Democrat, said in the statement.
Some scientists believe that research with stem cells can help cure diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease and perhaps even help with spinal cord injuries.
“By signing this executive order, President Obama has opened new doors of hope and science for these individuals and their loved ones,” Udall said. “It is a great day for scientific progress, and more importantly, for people suffering from debilitating diseases and conditions.”
Obama made it clear, before signing the bill, that his administration would “ensure that our government never opens the door to the use of cloning for human reproduction.” Obama called cloning “dangerous” and “profoundly wrong” and said it has “no place in our society or any society.”
