Two-out-of-three Americans (66%) believe that “embryonic stem cell research" is at least somewhat likely to lead to cures to previously incurable diseases. A Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey of 1,000 adults found that this figure includes 72% of Democrats, 59% of Republicans, and 69% of those not affiliated with either major political party. Americans under 30 were a bit more optimistic than their elders about the potential of such research.

However, 30% of Americans believe that embryonic stem cell research is morally wrong. That view is held by 46% of Republicans, 18% of Democrats and 28% of unaffiliateds.

Forty-seven percent (47%) of all adults take the opposite view and say it is not morally wrong.

In August 2001, President George W. Bush cited ethical questions in his rationale to ban federal funding for embryonic stem cell research. In a nationally televised statement, Bush said, "While we’re all hopeful about the potential of this research, no one can be certain that the science will live up to the hope it has generated."

On July 19, 2006, Bush vetoed the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2005, which had been approved by the House of Representatives and the Senate, and sought to allow federal funding for embryonic stem cell research on cells "derived from human embryos that have been donated from in-vitro fertilization clinics, were created for the purposes of fertility treatment, and were in excess of the clinical need of the individuals seeking such treatment."

Sixty-four percent (64%) of Americans say they’re following news stories of the issue somewhat or very closely. However, just 23% say it will be a Very Important issue when it comes to determining their vote in the next election.