Barrett voices support for stem cell research

MIDDLETON, Wis. (AP) - Democratic gubernatorial candidate Tom Barrett is blasting his Republican challengers for not supporting embryonic stem cell research.

Barrett drew applause Wednesday when he spoke out in support of the research at a biotech conference in Middleton. His comments came two days after a federal judge's ruling that embryonic stem cell research cannot use taxpayer money. The Obama administration plans to appeal the ruling.

Barrett says some of the best scientists in the world are doing that research at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, which he called a "moral service" to the country.

Republicans Scott Walker and Mark Neumann both oppose embryonic stem cell research. They argue that research can be done in the area without destroying embryos.