Perry predicts Prop 15 passage

He's probably right. At least, I wouldn't bet against it.

Gov. Rick Perry expressed confidence Thursday that a $3 billion bond proposal for cancer research will pass easily next week.

Speaking during the Texas Life Science Conference in Houston, Perry said of Proposition 15 on the Nov. 6 ballot, "This is one I don't worry about at all. It will pass."

With a high-minded goal of finding cures for cancer, the proposition has won widespread bipartisan backing in the Texas Legislature, and other supporters include former Democratic Comptroller John Sharp, seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong and the American Cancer Society.

But recently some opposition has emerged. Cathie Adams, president of the Texas Eagle Forum, has cautioned fellow Republicans that the borrowed money -- $300 million annually for a decade -- might not stay in Texas and could be used for embryonic stem cell research.

Saying the measure to borrow funds to pay for research is fiscally irresponsible, the Harris County Republican Party has also said it opposes the cancer initiative.

As I've said before, there is an argument to be made against the bonds, both from the right and left. I can't say I've been terribly impressed with the case that has been made by conservative activists, but maybe it'll resonate with some folks. Be that as it may, even with crappy turnout, I think this one sails home.

Posted by Charles Kuffner on November 02, 2007 to Election 2007