Alaska

Stem cell research has drawn little attention in Alaska politics or in research within the state. Alaskans hold varying views on the topic, but the ethics of using fetal stem cells has rarely been a hotly contested issue. Since 2003, the governorship and the state legislature have been controlled by Republicans, but some Alaska Republicans appear to be more moderate on social issues, including stem cell research, than Sarah Palin’s much publicized views suggest. The record of Alaska’s congressional delegation reflects a more moderate position. The lack of stem cell research in Alaska is more complicated than political opposition.

Alaska has no stem cell research institute and no stem cell research laws. The state also lacks a full medical, dental, or veterinary college. Research in the ...