Dillon's abortion position will matter - Laura Berman, Detnews columnist

[Bozita]

Last Updated: July 13. 2010 1:00AM
Laura Berman
Dillon's abortion position will matter


In Ann Arbor last week, Andy Dillon touted the benefits of life science research at the University of Michigan, mentioning that his brother's life was saved by a stem cell transplant.

But the speaker of the House failed to mention that he was -- and remains -- personally opposed of embryonic stem cell research.

He publicly salutes its potential role in the state's economic future because of a 2008 state constitutional amendment establishing what he calls "settled law." That rhetorical dance -- and his opposition to legalized abortion -- makes Dillon an unconventional Democratic contender for governor.

"When was the last time a pro-life Democratic candidate won a statewide primary?" asks Rebekah Warren, a Democratic Ann Arbor state representative, who has yet to commit to either Dillon or Democratic rival Virg Bernero.

Pollsters say the choice/no choice issue is key to differentiating Democrats from Republicans -- and from each other. All of the Republicans describe themselves as anti-abortion, although businessman Rick Snyder supports embryonic stem cell research.

In the Aug. 3 Democratic primary, though, no one's sure how deeply this typically core issue will play in the "jobs, jobs, jobs" ambiance of the election.

About 70 percent of primary-voting Democrats favor abortion rights.

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From The Detroit News: http://www.detnews.com/article/20100713/OPINION03/7130374/Dillon-s-abortion-position-will-matter#ixzz0tZD47oRi