ABORTION STATEMENTS STRAIN PRESIDENT'S CREDIBILITY

--Ellen Sauerbrey

Few subjects in America are more controversial than abortion, but on one thing both opponents and supporters of abortion generally agree. Taxpayers should not have to pay for that “choice”.

Proponents of Obamacare have repeatedly asserted that their health care proposal would not pay for abortion. Most recently President Obama held a conference call with religious leaders in an attempt to build support from the pulpits for his program. He passionately argued that those who claim abortion would be covered are engaging in blatant fabrication.

But the President himself, while still serving in the Senate pledged to Planned Parenthood that abortion is a“fundamental issue” and “is at the center and at the heart of the plan that I proposed”. He further pledged “reproductive care is basic care, it is essential care.... Essentially, what we are doing is to say that we’re gonna set up a public plan that all persons and all women can access if they don’t have health insurance. It will be a plan that will provide all essential services, including reproductive services." So, where does he really stand?

In addition Senate and House Committees defeated every amendment offered to clarify that the health care plan would not fund abortion. If proponents really do not intend for taxpayer funding of abortions, why not just say so? If the bill passes with no reference to abortion funding, the matter will be resolved by Obama appointees who will write regulations or judges who will hear future complaints.

Elected officials have only so much political capital and only so much credibility. The President is using up a lot of both on his health care overhaul. It is obvious that he is not being square with the American people about many aspects of his health care plan. When voters realize that he is speaking out of both sides of his mouth on the abortion issue, he may have permanently lost their trust.