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Michael Bond for Senate

Senate hopefuls differ on stem-cell research issues

By Russell Lissau
Daily Herald Staff Writer
Posted Thursday, September 21, 2006

The Democrat seeking the 31st state Senate seat said he believes the state should financially support embryonic stem-cell research, a prospect his Republican rival opposes.

Democrat Michael Bond said Illinois "should enthusiastically promote", the controversial research.

"We should accommodate facilities and medical professionals who seek to conduct embryonic stem-cell research and expand our role as a leader in the biotechnology industry", said Bond, 36, of Grayslake.

Republican Suzanne Simpson disagrees, citing financial rather than moral grounds.

"Today, we need every dollar for education, transportation basic health care, pension obligations and other essential priorities the state cannot ignore", said Simpson, 52, of the Grayslake area.

Simpson also criticized the millions of dollars Gov. Rod Blagojevich has dedicated to stem-cell research. Supporters said they believe the effort could lead to cures for various diseases. Abortion foes typically oppose the work.

The candidates shared their opinions about the research and other topics in questionnaires for the Daily Herald. Voters will decide Nov. 7 which of them will succeed outgoing state Sen. Adeline Geo-Karis.

Simpson is Warren Township's supervisor and a former state representative. Bond works at Allstate Insurance Co. and is a Woodland Elementary District 50 board member.

Both are first-time Senate candidates. Simpson defeated Geo-Karis in the Republican primary, while Bond ran unopposed.

The 31st District includes nearly all of northern Lake County, including some or all of Antioch, Avon, Grant, Lake Villa, Warren, Waukegan and Zion townships.

The seat carries a 4-year term.

Source:
Daily Herald September 21, 2006


	© 2006, Michael Bond for Illinois State Senate