New Jersey Rejects Stem-Cell Bonds in `Big Defeat'

New Jersey voters rejected a $450 million bond measure to fund stem-cell research in a defeat for Democratic Governor Jon Corzine, who backed the proposal with his own money.

The ballot question was defeated by 53 percent to 47 percent, according to the state elections division. The measure would have authorized New Jersey to borrow as much as $45 million annually for 10 years to fund scientists' work in the field.

Corzine said low election turnout, about a quarter of eligible voters, and backlash over the state's fiscal position contributed to the question's rejection. He said stem-cell research could be the subject of another ballot proposition or the state could fund it as part of the state's operating budget.

``The public expects to see the finances of this state put in proper order. We're working on that,'' Corzine told reporters today at the Statehouse. ``This shows people need to be reassured that government is working for them.''

Corzine was elected in 2005, promising to use his experience as a former Goldman, Sachs & Co. chairman to fix New Jersey's finances...