08.03.2004

Deutsch Emphasizes Universal Healthcare and Stem Cell Research During Statewide Televised Debate

WEST PALM BEACH - Tonight at the WPTV Democratic Candidates Debate, Congressman Peter Deutsch (FL-20) took clear command of the issues highlighting his 22 years of experience and how he will fight hard for all of Florida as the next Senator.

"Politics is the art of making the impossible, possible." And in 22 years, I have fought for better healthcare, education funding and to protect the environment for Florida and my district," said Deutsch.

At the debate Deutsch stated that upon entering the United States Senate, the first bill he will introduce will be his Universal Health Care Plan that will cover every man, woman, and child across the country. According to Deutsch, 43 million Americans wake up each morning without coverage.

In addition, during the debate, Deutsch again asked both of his Democratic colleagues to join him in supporting his legislation overturning President Bush’s ban on stem cell research. Deutsch’s bill would allow for the federal government to fund research on stem cell lines left over from the in vitro fertilization process, and only then with the express consent of the donor. At the same time, the bill also ensures the completeness of the lines through a new focus on diversity. Finally, the bill creates an office within the NIH to be called the “Ronald Reagan Office of Human Stem Cell Research” to oversee all research on the subject.

"We are at the threshold of great discovery, and it is time that our nation became the leader in scientific innovation again,” Deutsch said. “Lifting the stem cell ban has the potential to profoundly improve the lives of millions of Americans, and save the lives of millions more."

This debate was aired lived on NBC affiliates throughout the state and will be re-aired in some markets. Please check your local listings for times.

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