Words fly in stem cell debate in race for 2nd District seat

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.omaha.com/index.php?u_page=2835&u_sid=10428152

Published Tuesday September 9, 2008
Words fly in stem cell debate in race for 2nd District seat
BY TOM SHAW
WORLD-HERALD STAFF WRITER

U.S. Rep. Lee Terry has distributed a flier questioning opponent Jim Esch's "pro-life" credentials, which Esch says misstates his positions.

The flier, sent this weekend to pro-life voters, challenges Esch's position on stem cell research and Esch's relationship with pro-life organizations.

Terry, a Republican, is running against Democrat Esch in a rematch of their 2006 race for Nebraska's 2nd District. The contest promises to be hard-hitting and is considered to be among the most competitive in the state.

The recent Terry flier declares, "Lee Terry is pro-life. Jim Esch is not," and lists three issues that the Terry campaign says back up its claim:

• The flier says Esch supports embryonic stem cell research. Terry's spokesman said Monday that the flier was referring to Esch's position in 2006 in support of research on embryos scheduled for destruction.

Esch said Monday that he no longer supports using any embryos for research. He said he now supports using skin cells and other types of cells for medical research.

• Terry contends that Esch "disrespected" Nebraska pro-life groups by not filling out their questionnaires.

Esch said his campaign decided not to answer a questionnaire this spring from Nebraska Right to Life because the group's policy is to support pro-life incumbents. In 2006, the group endorsed Terry in the general election.

Esch said he contacted the group last month and asked for a chance to fill out the survey. Nebraska Right to Life confirmed Monday that Esch told the group he hoped it would release his answers to the public even if he would not receive an endorsement.

• Terry's flier also states that Esch was accused in 2006 of not being honest with pro-life groups when he first ran against Terry. The campaign was referring to Nebraskans United for Life, which revoked its 2006 endorsement of Esch after Esch told a radio station he supported research using embryonic stem cells from in-vitro fertilization that were slated for destruction.

FULL story at link.