Washington state, that is, not Washington, D.C. Our Death With Dignity allies up there deserve big congratulations and heartfelt thanks for their doggedly skillful efforts in passing I-1000 by a 58% to 42% margin on November 4. As a result, their state now joins Oregon in permitting physician assistance to terminally ill patients who wish to end their lives.
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Former Washington Governor Booth Gardner, himself a sufferer of Parkinson’s Disease, played a defining role in achieving this victory, both with his cogent arguments and his political know- ledge. Despite, we should note, determined, well financed oppo- sition from religious conservatives spearheaded by elements of the Catholic Church. Hats off to Mr. Gardner and his whole team.
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As for that other Washington, our nation’s capital, I’m afraid we'll have to wait before the light of sensible DWD policy shines there. President-elect Obama has a very full agenda, though perhaps we dare hope that somewhere along the line he might guide the changes in attitudes and law necessary to recognize that the freedom to choose DWD is a right all should have.
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Former Washington Governor Booth Gardner, himself a sufferer of Parkinson’s Disease, played a defining role in achieving this victory, both with his cogent arguments and his political know- ledge. Despite, we should note, determined, well financed oppo- sition from religious conservatives spearheaded by elements of the Catholic Church. Hats off to Mr. Gardner and his whole team.
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As for that other Washington, our nation’s capital, I’m afraid we'll have to wait before the light of sensible DWD policy shines there. President-elect Obama has a very full agenda, though perhaps we dare hope that somewhere along the line he might guide the changes in attitudes and law necessary to recognize that the freedom to choose DWD is a right all should have.
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