Both Kerry and Edwards have repeatedly referred to the President's policy as a "ban" on stem cell research.

Numerous media outlets have adopted their language, referring to the President's new funding as a ban, or saying that the President took steps to limit federal funding without mentioning that the President announced the first ever federal funding of stem cell research. These characterizations are inaccurate or incomplete, and misinform the public on the reality of the policy.

The Facts Are:

• President Bush delivered the first funding ever for embryonic stem cell research. Prior to the President's announcement of new funding, federal funding of embryonic stem cell research was $0.

• The President's announcement did not ban, limit or restrict stem cell research.

• It is inaccurate to say the President "limited federal funding" of stem cell research, as such funding did not exist to limit. This language misleads voters to believe that the President put restrictions on existing federal funding.

• The President did announce the first ever federal funding of stem cell research with ethical requirements on which stem cell lines are funded.

The new federal funding that the President announced did not include funds to research stem cell lines from embryos that had not already been destroyed.

John Kerry's Effort To Mislead On Stem Cell Research:

KERRY: "Three years ago, the President enacted a far-reaching ban on stem cell research, shutting down some of the most promising work to prevent, treat and cure Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, diabetes, AIDS and so many other life-threatening diseases." (Sen. John Kerry, Democratic Response To The President's Weekly Radio Address, 8/7/04)

2001 Coverage Of Stem Cell Decision:

The Boston Globe: Bush Administration Announced