This decision is a major victory for science, and a major victory for science education.

The stakes are high. If Kansas gets away with it ... I anticipate that in every state where science standards are up for revision, we are going to be fighting another battle.

Intelligent design is ultimately a science stopper.

People don't show up here (at the courtroom) because they believe evolution is bad science. They show up because they believe that if they accept evolution, then they are abandoning their religious beliefs. They see it as an either/or proposition: Either evolution happened, or God loves you.

The decision to acquit on the conspiracy charge, a felony, is a huge victory, given the narrow parameters within which the four could present their defense, and given the restrictions on deliberations. This is a major setback in the government's efforts to criminalize dissent.

I am thrilled with today's victory. But this is a win for all New Yorkers. Today's decision means an additional billion dollars of insurance proceeds will be available.