Planned Parenthood Becomes An Issue…In A GOP Primary

Reminding me of when George H.W. Bush ran for president so many eons ago, Planned Parenthood has become an issue in the HD-87 primary:

In the weeks before the March primaries, the race for 87th District State Representative is heating up. This time, a local organization says they’re being dragged into the campaign against their will.

Directors at the local Planned Parenthood say their reputation could be harmed, so they want the mudslinging to stop.

Recent radio and newspaper ads in support of incumbent David Swinford criticize challenger Anette Carlisle’s involvement with Planned Parenthood.

They question her position as an honorary sponsor, which directors of Planned Parenthood say can harm their mission.

CEO Claudia Stravato says the ads imply the local chapter is somehow involved with abortion or abortion referrals, which she says they are not.

She adds that she doesn’t understand why the ads run because both candidates support their mission - Swinford by getting tax dollars to Planned Parenthood, and Carlisle by being an honorary sponsor.

She also says the ads could impact their ability to provide healthcare to lower income families.

…Anette Carlisle’s reaction to all this - she says she abided by Planned Parenthood’s request to keep them out of the campaign.

She adds that she and Swinford are both pro-life.

“I oppose abortion for birth control, except when a mother’s life is in danger, then it’s a necessary thing. I believe he stated the same thing. I don’t see how we differ on the stance,” says Carlisle.

David Swinford’s campaign manager, who declined to go on camera, says in no way does Swinford support Planned Parenthood.

She also says he is the only pro-life candidate in the election.

Doesn’t it just beat all when Republicans are arguing over who is more “pro-life?” Aside from a picture of Swinford giving an abortion or Carslile getting an abortion, I’d sady this race is a tie in that department.

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