President Bush has, however, promised to veto any stem cell bill reaching his desk. Unless, of course, Democrats can produce legislation which is veto-proof.

Towards that end, I offer the "Ronald Reagan Life Legacy Act" (R2L2). Potentially more important than putting the Gipper's face on the dime, this legislation would be a fitting tribute to the (right's) beloved father of today's Republican majority:

The Ronald Reagan Life Legacy Act would honor the late president, a victim of Alzheimer’s disease, with major federal investments in institutions and companies seeking a cure. The five-year, $20 billion program would provide funds for new embryonic stem cell research and other promising approaches for Alzheimer’s and other neurological or medical disorders. Regional Reagan Research Centers would be set up building on existing university and private sector programs, including in Ohio, Florida, North Carolina, New Mexico and other key (red) states. “Morning in America” grants would also be available to researchers throughout the United States.

Combining research dollars in key red states with the Reagan name is a sure-fire formula for success. It's one of those "unopposable utterances" (like "end the death tax") that the GOP is usually so adept at producing.

Yes, Democrats can win over virtually any Republican opponent with the Ronald Reagan Life Legacy Act. Unless, that is, their battle cry is "Twin One for the Gipper."

—Perrspective 3:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) |