WASHINGTON - President Bush rejected legislation Wednesday that could have multiplied the federal money going into embryonic stem cell research, using the first veto of his presidency to underscore his stand on the emotionally charged, life-and-death issue.

A few hours later, the House voted 235-193 to overturn Bush's veto, 51 short of the required two-thirds majority.

“This bill would support the taking of innocent human life in the hope of finding medical benefits for others,” Bush said. “It crosses a moral boundary that our decent society needs to respect.”

Most Americans disagree with the president, according to public opinion polls.

A number of lawmakers expressed confidence the legislation would someday become law and some suggested Bush's stance could hurt Republicans in congressional elections this fall.

“Mr. President, we will not give up,” said Sen. Edward Kennedy, D-Mass. “We will continue this battle.”