Is the "stem cell" issue divisive for the Repubs ?

[kentuck]

Since Frist came out against Bush, and Repubs such as Arlen Specter ae supportive of embryonic "stem cell" research, will this divide the Republicans into two camps, the religious right and the moderate pragmatic conservatives? Or are there enough moderate conservatives left to make a difference?

[NativeTexan]

1. Between conservatives and neo-cons it is

This could be a battle of epic proportions for the heart and soul of the Republican Party!!

The traditionalists understand the need for stemcell research (see: Nancy Reagan).

The neo-cons are driven by the right-wing religious extremists who call themselves "pro-life" but of course don't count lives lost in a lie-filled war in Iraq worth counting.

Then there is Bill Frist....the opportunitist who will, as my sainted Daddy you say, "be anybodies ole dog who'll hunt with him". He more than likely IS for stemcell research, but now has to put some distance between himself and the right-wing religious extremists that put him in the Senate.

[Inland]

2. Pits extreme conservatives against nutbag wild extreme conservatives

And thereby splits the republican party establishment right down the middle.