Pro-choice label doesn’t fit Friedman

Recently, Arie Friedman sent out a mailer to voters implying that he is pro-choice. This perplexes us at Planned Parenthood because we know that last year Friedman made a contribution to Family PAC, a political action committee that endorses only candidates who are strongly opposed to abortion. Why would a pro-choice candidate donate to a group that holds a position that is completely opposite of the one he claims?

It makes sense when you watch Friedman’s interview on “Public Affairs” from when he ran for Congress in 2009. In his interview, Friedman makes it clear that he supports numerous restrictions on access to abortion. That is not pro-choice.

Our concern with Friedman goes beyond his position on abortion. Friedman wants to completely repeal Obamacare, which means taking away insurance coverage for women’s preventive health care, like mammograms and birth control. Why would someone who says he stands for women want to repeal a law that helps them access the preventive health care they need?

The 29th District needs a state senator who will stand up for women in both words and actions. Julie Morrison recognizes that abortion is a deeply personal and often complex decision for a woman. She also realizes that insurance coverage for preventive health care is essential so that women stay healthy and prevent unintended pregnancies. Julie Morrison believes that politicians should not be involved in a woman’s personal medical decisions. Julie Morrison trusts women. That is why voters should trust her to be their next state senator.

Carole Brite

President/CEO

Planned Parenthood Illinois