“Political activists this week formed a new political committee to challenge political leaders—namely, Republicans, for now—who the critics say have distorted scientific findings to fit their policy preferences.”

That Scientists and Engineers for America is supporting Democrats is not surprising given its origin as Scientists and Engineers for Change which supported John Kerry in the 2004 election (background http://www.nytimes.com/2004/09/28/politics/campaign/28policy.html)

“It is a successor to one that formed in 2004 to support the presidential campaign of John Kerry but then disbanded.”

I have absolutely no problem with any group organizing to advance their interests, even if those interests are best represented by one party. That is democracy at work. Problems will arise if they assert that “science” compels particular candidates rather than clearly describing the values that they seek to advance.

Their “Bill of Rights” is pretty hokey. And this statement is just bizarre: “While scientists may elect to withhold methods or studies that might be misused there shall be no federal prohibition on publication of basic research results.”

In any case I can’t imagine that they’ll have much electoral impact. Their contributions to the further politicization of science will be worth watching.

One thing to note: 527 is specifically a political advocacy designation, giving the organization the ability to raise and distribute money in election campaigns (which is not true for 501(c)(3)’s). One way the SEforA can make sure they stay nonpartisan is to support as many R’s as D’s in campaigns.