My commitment to protect Roe v. Wade
Fighting for reproductive rights for all
This week marked the 47th anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision, which ensured the right to abortion for people across the country. This anniversary serves as an important reminder to all of us of just how crucial the continued fight for reproductive health care is. It is a reminder that right now, reproductive rights are under attack like never before.
From Ohio to Tennessee to Louisiana, lawmakers are putting forward bills to ban — and criminalize — abortions. These laws are dangerous, and are deliberate attempts to chip away at Roe v. Wade.
At the federal level, the Trump Administration continues to attack reproductive rights with dangerous rules and the Senate continues to confirm a record number of anti-choice judges.
We have seen these policies have a direct impact here in Maine. Maine Family Planning and Planned Parenthood have withdrawn from the Title X program, forgoing millions of dollars, because of the Trump Administration’s draconian gag rule restricting how doctors can talk to their patients.
Here in Maine, we’ve done things differently. Throughout my time in the State House, we have worked to protect and expand access to reproductive care for people across the state. We’ve worked to allow MaineCare to cover abortions, and I sponsored a bill that expands the number of medical professionals who can provide abortion care, broadening access in rural areas of the state.
Planned Parenthood has been there for thousands of Maine people. From cancer screenings to crucial reproductive care, there are countless families that rely on their support and care. That is why Planned Parenthood’s endorsement of my run for Senate is so meaningful. It is also personal. In my twenties, I relied on Planned Parenthood as my health care provider — and throughout my time in the State House, I have fought for Mainers’ reproductive rights. Now, I am running for Senate because we need representatives who will fight for all Mainers who rely on organizations like Planned Parenthood, Maine Family Planning, and Mabel Wadsworth.
I am steadfast in my belief that, no matter a person’s race, socioeconomic background, or what part of the state that they live in, every person has the right to make their own health decisions, control their own future, and receive care from the provider of their choice.
This Senate race will be crucial in the fight to protect Roe v. Wade. As Maine’s Senator, I will work to repeal Trump’s Title X gag rule and secure funding for Planned Parenthood. I will fight to put an end to Mitch McConnell’s concerted effort to change the balance of the courts, because it is time to stop confirming judges that are hostile to Roe, won’t respect precedent, and don’t have the temperament to serve.
But getting there will take all of us. This past weekend, thousands of Americans marched and stood up for everything we care about at the Women’s March. Every year, I am reminded of the power we have when we all come together. When we work together, we have the power to make a real difference and flip control of the Senate. That’s why I know we can win. And when we do, we will do it together.
