Hosta stands alone on abortion issue among 14th District Democrats
Positioning himself as the candidate who can attract votes from moderate Republicans in the 14th Congressional District is a cornerstone of Democrat John Hosta's campaign. That angle stood out this week at a candidate forum where Hosta took a stance on abortion that set him apart from the six other Democrats in the March 20 primary.
"I'm a pro-life candidate," Hosta said. "There is a time (during a pregnancy) that that option should not be available ... the third trimester. Many people take very strong shots at me for this position. But it's amazing how many Democrats, and many, many, Republicans, I talk to support that position."
In past campaigns, Hosta has taken other conservative stances. He has described NAFTA as a "weak" trade policy that has wiped out American manufacturing. He's also expressed support for enhanced border security with Mexico, spoken against any "substantial increase in immigration" and been an outspoken defender of Second Amendment rights.
The other candidates have taken more traditional Democratic views on most issues, including abortion.
Daniel Roldan-Johnson said he is pro-choice, especially when it comes to rape, incest or danger to the life of the mother.
"A woman's health is best left to her, her partner and her doctor," he said.
Lauren Underwood said she has a unique perspective from her male opponents, and a unique drive, to maintain unrestricted access to the full range of women's reproductive health care services.
"This issue impacts me and my friends and so many women across the country personally," she said. "Our ability to access reproductive health care is literally under attack every day. We need representatives in Congress who understand this and are going to fight for my right to do what I need to do for my health and wellbeing."
Jim Walz, who won the party's nomination two years ago, said he will support a woman's right to choose and defend outlets to health care services such as Planned Parenthood.
"The demonization that has gone on toward that organization is despicable," Walz said. "It's up to the individual woman, her partner and her doctors to decide what's in the best interest of her, not anybody in Washington."
George Weber said abortion is an issue where the country is evenly split. He suggested that a possible answer to the outcry against public funding for organizations that provide abortions is to add another checkoff boxes to tax returns, similar to the existing wayto donate to a pool of funds for presidential candidates.
"I'm pro-choice," Weber said. "But I think that might keep everybody happy. People should be able to do what they want to."
Matt Brolley said the there is only one answer to a question about abortion.
"That should be the choice of the woman and her doctor. That's it," Brolley said. He also expressed support for public funding of Planned Parenthood.
Victor Swanson was not present at the McHenry County Community College forum this week. On his website, Swanson said he is pro-choice and pledged to support equal rights for women.