Abortion And Family Planning

Abortion And Family Planning

Section Overview:

• Budd said that he was “100% pro-life,” repeatedly stated that he believes that “life begins at conception,” and stated that he opposed abortion exceptions in cases of rape, incest, and even for the life of the mother.
• Budd supported North Carolina’s ban on abortion after 20 weeks, and said he was “extremely disappointed” when it was ruled unconstitutional
• Budd proposed Stopping Traffickers and Their Accomplices Act of 2022, which required abortion providers to file a report with the National Human Trafficking Hotline if they suspected a patient at the clinic was a victim of human trafficking.
• Budd co-sponsored legislation to ban dilation and evacuation, a procedure commonly used in second-trimester abortions.
• Budd supported the domestic gag rule which restricted Title X federal family planning funding and opposed legislation to block its enforcement.
• Budd called for ending taxpayer funding on human embryonic stem cell research at the National Institutes of Health.
• Budd supported requiring abortion providers to dispose of fetal remains in the same way as any other human remains.
• Budd supported legislation to prohibit using the Department of Health and Human Services from supporting or conducting research using fetal tissue from an induced abortion.
• Budd repeatedly supported the No Taxpayer For Abortion And Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act, which would prohibit government funding for abortions including through Medicaid and other government programs.
• Budd supported legislation prohibiting COVID response funds from going towards abortions and argued that abortions should be suspended during the pandemic.
• Budd co-sponsored multiple pieces of legislation that would ban abortions where a fetal heartbeat was detectable, effectively banning abortions after six weeks.
• Budd co-sponsored legislation that would require women seeking an abortion to get a mandatory ultrasound.
• Budd supported strengthening federal regulation of abortion medication and supported requiring informing women seeking an abortion about “abortion pill reversal.”
• Budd supported the Mexico City Policy which barred federal funding for foreign NGOs that provide abortion counseling or services.
• Budd signed an amicus brief in support of overturning Roe v. Wade, which he said was “passed wrongfully and tragically.” Budd enthusiastically supported the Supreme Court’s leaked decision that sought to overturn Roe.
• Budd opposed the Women’s Health Protection Act, which sought to codify abortion rights protections. Budd called the legislation “disgusting” and said he was “adamantly opposed” to it.
• Budd co-sponsored personhood legislation that could lead to outlawing birth control and in vitro fertilization.
• Budd supported defunding Planned Parenthood and said doing so was a “sign of progress.” Budd supported multiple pieces of legislation aimed at defunding and signed onto amicus briefs supporting Texas and South Carolina defunding Planned Parenthood.
• Budd spoke in support of the Texas abortion law, which sought to ban most abortions after about six weeks, did not include rape or incest exceptions, and deputized private citizens to sue people who “aid and abet” a procedure.
• Budd supported a federal trap law and Louisiana’s trap law that required abortion providers to have admitting privileges to a local hospital and to adhere to strict safety standards.

Abortion, Generally

Budd Stated That He Opposes Abortion Exceptions In Cases Of Rape, Incest, And For The Life Of The Mother

[VIDEO] Budd Stated That He Opposes Abortion Exceptions In Cases Of Rape, Incest, And For The Life Of The Mother. ANCHOR: “So just to clarify, if the mother’s life’s in changer, if she’s been raped, or is a victim of incest, you still feel that that person should not be given the option to abort the child?” BUDD: “You need to look at it as a tragedy. Let’s engage this person, let’s talk with them. But, let’s also realize there’s a second life there, and you look at it through those lenses and why would you want to take a second life for something that’s already been harmed? So That’s how I wanna look at it.” ANCOR: “Even if the mother may die from giving birth?” BUDD: “You know, I think that’s something you have to look at, has to be a discussion with your doctor, but lets make sure we don’t add more tragedy to an already tough situation.” [CBS 17, 4/25/22]

Budd Stated That He Opposed Any Abortion Exception Even In Cases Of Rape And Incest. According to Washington Post, “Trump-backed Senate candidate Rep. Ted Budd (R-N.C.) said last week that he opposes any exceptions even in those cases, which he labeled a ‘tragedy.’” [Washington Post, 5/4/22]

Budd Did Not Explicitly Say Whether He Would Support Banning Abortion In Cases Of Rape And Incest Or When The Mother’s Life Would Be At Risk, But Hinted That He Would, Arguing, “Why Would You Want To Take A Second Life For Something That’s Already Been Harmed.”  According to Axios, “Rep. Ted Budd (R-N.C.), also endorsed by Trump, has left the door open to banning abortion in cases where a mother's life could be at risk as well as in cases of rape and incest. When pressed on these specific scenarios during an interview with CBS last month, Budd said: ‘You need to look at it as a tragedy, and let's engage this person, let's talk with them. But let's also realize there's a second life there. And you had to look at it through those lenses in why would you want to take a second life for something that's already been harmed.’” [Axios, 5/8/22]

Budd Said He Was “Pro-Life”

Budd Said He Was Going To Support The “Pro-Life Movement.” According to the Salisbury Post, “When asked about issues he feels are most important, Budd started by mentioning Americans' right to own a firearm. ‘Because of what I do for a living every day, obviously the second amendment is going to be extremely important," he said. "If you want to dig deeper, I'm a conservative as a point of principle and that's going to play out in the way I look at the second amendment, the Constitution, how I look at right to life and the pro-life movement. Those are things I'm going to support — not issue by issue but as a result of being conservative at the core.’” [Salisbury Post, 5/7/16]

Budd Co-Signed A Letter To Donald Trump Calling For The Nomination Of Pro-Life Justices. According to a press release form Congressman Robert Pittenger, “Complementing a letter from President Trump to pro-life leaders during the campaign, Congressman Pittenger's letter specifically cites four priorities: Nominating pro-life justices to the U.S. Supreme Court Enacting the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act Ending taxpayer funding of the abortion industry, specifically Planned Parenthood, the nation's largest abortion provider Making the Hyde Amendment permanent and government-wide law […] The letter was co-signed by United States Representatives […] Ted Budd (NC-13)” [Congressman Robert Pittenger Press Release, 1/27/17]

Budd Said He Was “100% Pro-Life.” According to the Washington Times, “In his announcement video, Mr. Budd says he is a ‘small businessman who is so fed up with the liberal attacks on our faith, our families and our way of life’ and highlights a clip of Mr. Trump praising him as a ‘warrior’ and a ‘champion’ for lower taxes, border security and gun rights. ‘Joe Biden, Chuck Schumer, and Nancy Pelosi are shredding our Constitution, creating an unprecedented crisis at our southern border, cutting American’s jobs and mortgaging our children’s future with massive debts,’ Mr. Budd, 49, says in the video. ‘I am 100% pro-life, and I even think elections should be fair and secure.’” [Washington Times, 4/28/21]

In Response To The Texas Abortion Ban, An Adviser To U.S. Rep Ted Budd’s Senate Campaign Stated That Budd Is Pro-Life. According to the Charlotte Observer, “An adviser to U.S. Rep. Ted Budd’s Senate campaign said Budd is pro-life and glad that Trump and Senate Republicans ‘elevated conservative judges to the Supreme Court who value the Constitution and life.’” [Charlotte Observer, 9/5/21]

[VIDEO] Budd Praised The Pro-Life Movement And Vowed To Protect The Unborn. “BUDD: Madam Speaker, I rise today because this month marks 46 years since Roe v. Wade was decided. Since that decision, there have been over 60 million abortions. I'm not sure there's any other way to describe this statistic other than the word horrifying. With that being said, also rise today to recognize the thousands of people who travel to Washington every year to fight for the unborn. Madam Speaker, the pro-life movement in America is growing. Why? Because it's a movement about love and about promoting a culture of life by promoting a culture of life. These folks are advocating for more than just saving the unborn babies, although that is extremely important. Mr. Speaker, this is a fight for the dignity of life that says we need to view people as assets to our society and not as liabilities. When we view people as assets, it means we are giving those who are trapped in a cycle of poverty a real shot to make it in this life. And when we view people as assets, it means we are seeing those with disabilities as contributors and nothing less. I want to close by thanking all of the people, especially those from North Carolina, who give a voice to the voiceless. They are an inspiration to me and to many others around the country. And with that, Madam Speaker, I yield back.” [CSPAN, 1/17/19] 190117_KNT_16478_A]

Budd Said Life Began At Conception

[VIDEO] Budd Asserted That Life Started At Conception. “BUDD: I have seen that people are concerned about life really escalate. They were saying, ‘Ted, where do you believe life begins?’ Life begins at conception. And you know we are wonderfully made. And there is a whole way you actually do politics out of that, beginning with protecting life in the womb. Thanks for your great stances on that for so long and so many in the room for that. But also, I mean you want to shift from that at the very beginning of life all the way to talking about jobs.” [Patriot Voices' Capitol Hill Day, 7/19/21]; 210719_ZAP_812_A.mp4

Budd Said “I Believe Life Begins At Conception, And I Am For Any Legislation That Leads And Supports The Sanctity Of Life.” According to the Statesville Record and Landmark, “When asked, Budd did not say he believed Roe v. Wade ought to be overturned. ‘I mean I acknowledge that it exists, but at the same time I believe life begins at conception, and I am for any legislation that leads and supports the sanctity of life,’ Budd said. Musgrave has been touring the nation over the last week advocating for the confirmation of Kavanaugh, who pro-abortion rights advocates say could be a swing vote to overturn Roe v. Wade.” [Statesville Record and Landmark, 9/24/18]

Ted Budd: “I Believe That Life Begins At Conception.” According to the office of Congressman Ted Budd, “I believe that life begins at conception and that our country should not stand for the injustice of ending the lives of millions of unborn children every year through abortion. I will do everything I can to stand up for life. I believe that strong families are the bedrock of not only our country, but a well-functioning society. Americans who graduate high school, start work, get married, and have children—in that order—are significantly less likely to fall into poverty. That’s why I will always support policies that will promote the stability and sanctity of the family unit.” [Congressman Ted Budd, accessed 10/1/21]

Budd Highlighted His A+ Rating  From Susan B. Anthony List’s National Pro-Life Scorecard

Budd Touted His A+ Rating From Susan B. Anthony List. According to post, “I'm honored to have received an A+ rating from @sbalist for my #ProLife work during the 116th Congress. I will never stop standing up for the rights of unborn children.” [Instagram – reptedbudd, 1/22/21]

Abortion Clinics

Stopping Traffickers And Their Accomplices Act Of 2022

The Stopping Traffickers And Their Accomplices Act Of 2022, Legislation Proposed By Budd, Required Abortion Providers To File A Report With The National Human Trafficking Hotline If They Suspect A Patient At The Clinic Is A Victim Of Human Trafficking. According to Daily Signal, “Legislation proposed by Rep. Ted Budd of North Carolina would require abortion providers to file a report with the National Human Trafficking Hotline if they suspect a patient at the clinic is a victim of human trafficking.   The Daily Signal first obtained a copy of the legislation, the Stopping Traffickers and Their Accomplices Act of 2022, which requires that abortion providers notify the hotline no later than 24 hours after consulting with a patient if they have ‘a reasonable suspicion that the patient is a victim of trafficking.’   Should the bill be enacted into law, those abortion providers who violate the act could be fined $10,000, imprisoned for up to six months, or both.” [Daily Signal, 1/31/22]

Budd: “Abortion Providers Have A Moral Obligation To Ensure That They Are Not Aiding And Abetting The Abuse Of Women Enslaved In The Sex Trade.”  According to Daily Signal, “’Abortion providers have a moral obligation to ensure that they are not aiding and abetting the abuse of women enslaved in the sex trade,’ Budd, a Republican, told The Daily Signal on Monday. ‘The Stopping Traffickers and Their Accomplices Act provides needed accountability to protect women and unborn children.’” [Daily Signal, 1/31/22]

Budd Wrote A Letter To The North Carolina Board Of Nursing Alleging That A Charlotte-based Nurse Provided Abortions After Her Medical License Expired In 2015 And Claimed That She Turned “A Blind Eye To Sex Trafficking Of Underage Girls.” According to Daily Signal, “Rep. Ted Budd of North Carolina is demanding explanations from the North Carolina Board of Nursing following reports that a nurse performed abortions after her medical license had expired and turned ‘a blind eye’ to the sex trafficking of underage girls.   ‘It has come to my attention that Deborah Jane Walsh, a nurse who operates an abortion clinic in Charlotte, performed abortions after her medical license expired in 2015,’ Budd, a Republican, wrote in a letter first obtained by The Daily Signal to the board’s chair, Ann Marie Milner.   ‘Whistleblower testimony further implicates Ms. Walsh as turning a blind eye to sex trafficking of underage girls,’ he added.” [Daily Signal, 2/17/22]

20-Week Abortion Ban

Budd Supported North Carolina’s Unconstitutional 20-Week ABortion Ban

Budd Said He Was “Extremely Disappointed” When North Carolina’s 20 Week Abortion Ban Was Struck Down As Unconstitutional. According to Ted Budd’s congressional update, “I’m extremely disappointed in Tuesday's ruling striking North Carolina's 20 week abortion ban as unconstitutional. Judge Osteen sided with pro-abortion groups over unborn babies. The Constitution was written to protect the rights of every American - this includes the most vulnerable. I hope the ruling is appealed as soon as possible.” [Ted Budd Congressional Update, 3/26/19]

Federal Appeals Court Ruled That North Carolina’s Ban On Abortion After 20 Weeks Of Pregnancy Was Unconstitutional And Posed A Credible Threat Of Prosecution To Abortion Providers. According to the Washington Post, “North Carolina’s decades-old ban on abortion after 20 weeks of pregnancy is unconstitutional and poses a credible threat of prosecution to abortion providers, a federal appeals court unanimously affirmed Wednesday. The ruling comes one month after the U.S. Supreme Court announced that it will review a case challenging Mississippi’s restrictive ban and consider whether ‘all pre-viability prohibitions on elective abortions’ are unconstitutional. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit was examining a 1973 law generally barring women from terminating their pregnancies after 20 weeks, a measure similar to laws in more than a dozen other states. The court rejected North Carolina’s argument that it was a case without controversy because no abortion providers have been prosecuted under the state’s law.” [Washington Post, 6/16/21]

Budd Voted For the Pain Capable Unborn Child Protection Act

Budd Voted For The Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act Which Would Restrict Abortions After 20 Weeks. According to a press release from Rep. Ted Budd, “U.S. Representative Ted Budd (R-NC) voted in favor of H.R. 36, the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act. The legislation restricts abortions after 20 weeks, with the exception of rape, incest and life of the mother. ‘As lawmakers, it's our responsibility to fight for those who don't have a voice,’ Rep. Budd said. ‘Right now, America is one of only seven countries in the world that have legalized late-term elective abortion after 5 months, putting us on the same list as North Korea, China and Vietnam. This bill is a strong step in the fight to protect the unborn.’” [Press Release – Rep. Ted Budd, 10/3/17]

• Budd Said His Vote For The 20-Week Abortion Ban Was “One Of The Votes I’m Most Proud To Have Taken.” According to a press release from Rep. Ted Budd, “With 2018's March for Life happening Friday, it's an important reminder that the fight to protect the unborn must continue in Congress and in communities around the country. The good news is that the pro-life movement has made progress over the last few years, even if it's just marginal. Crazy as this sounds, twenty years ago it would have been nearly impossible to get Congress to vote on banning abortion after twenty weeks - the point at which science tells us a baby can feel pain. One of the votes I'm most proud to have taken last year was one that would ban abortion after 20 weeks. This common sense ‘Pain Capable’ bill passed through the House with 237 votes and now, like many other promising bills, sits in the Senate awaiting action.” [Press Release – Rep. Ted Budd, 1/22/18]

Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act

Budd Voted For The Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act

Budd Voted For The Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act Which Would Require Health Professions To Be Present During Abortions To Provide The Same Level Of Care For Fetuses As Would Be Provided During A Normal Childbirth. According to News & Record, “FETUSES AND ABORTION: The House has passed the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act, which would require health care practitioners present at an attempted abortion to provide the same level of care for the fetus that would be provided after a normal childbirth, under threat of criminal penalties if the requirement is not met. The vote, on Jan. 19, was 241-183. Yeas: Walker, Budd” [News & Record, 1/28/18]

Budd Supported The Abortion Survivors Protection Act In Response To States Like New York And Illinois’ “State Level Extremism”. According to an op-ed by Ted Budd and Marjorie Dannenfelser published in the Daily Caller, “States like New York and Illinois have shocked the nation this year by expanding abortion up to the point of birth — even after the baby is delivered. In January, Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam (D-Va.) described his stance on abortion in an interview: ‘The infant would be delivered; the infant would be kept comfortable; the infant would be resuscitated if that’s what the mother and the family desire, and then a discussion would ensue between the physicians and the mother.’ In response to this state-level extremism, Rep. Ann Wagner (R-Mo.) introduced the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act, legislation to ensure that a baby born alive during a failed abortion receives the same life-sustaining medical care as any other baby born prematurely at the same age.” [Ted Budd and Marjorie Dannenfelser Op-Ed – Daily Caller, 8/15/19]

Conscience Protection Act

Budd Co-Sponsored The Conscience Protection Act

2019: Budd Co-Sponsored Legislation To “Prohibit Governmental Discrimination Against Providers Of Health Services That Are Not Involved In Abortion.” According to a press release from Congressman Andy Harris, “Rep. Andy Harris, R-Md., has introduced legislation (H.R. 2014) to amend the Public Health Service Act ‘to prohibit governmental discrimination against providers of health services that are not involved in abortion.’ The bill was introduced on April 1 and has 80 co-sponsors. Co-sponsors include […] Ted Budd, R-N.C.” [Press Release – Rep. Andy Harris, 4/3/19]

Budd Tweeted That He Was A “Proud Sponsor” For An Anti-Abortion “Conscience Protection” Bill. Budd tweet, “I'm a proud sponsor of this important bill. Citizens should not be forced or coerced into performing actions that violate their conscience. #ProLife” [Ted Budd, 11/29/21]

Department Of Veterans Affairs

Budd Supported VA Ban On Abortions

2021: Budd Signed Letter To Department Of Veterans Affairs Urging The Maintenance Of The Law Which Prohibits The VA From Offering Abortions Of Providing Abortion Counsel. According to a press release from Congressman Matt Rosendale, “Today, Representative Rosendale sent a letter, co-led by Ranking Member Bost, Representatives Chris Smith and Mariannette Miller-Meeks, and signed by 134 other representatives, to the Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Denis McDonough. This letter urges Secretary McDonough to maintain the current laws which prohibit the VA from offering abortions or providing abortion counsel. […] In addition to Representative Rosendale, the letter was signed by Representatives Mike Bost (R-IL), Chris Smith (R-NJ), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Steve Scalise (R-LA), Elise Stefanik (R-NY), Andy Biggs (R-AZ), Mike Johnson (R-LA), Jim Jordan (R-OH), Bob Good (R-VA), Doug Lamborn (R-CO), Glenn Grothman (R-WI), Ralph Norman (R-SC), Diana Harshbarger (R-TN), Randy Weber (R-TX), Barry Moore (R-AL), Lauren Boebert (R-CO), Daniel Webster (R-FL), Ted Budd (R-NC)” [Press Release – Rep. Matt Rosendale, 6/16/21]

Dilation And Evacuation

Budd Co-Sponsored A Ban On Dilation And Evacuation

2021: Budd Co-Sponsored Legislation To Prohibit So-Called Dismemberment Abortions. According to a press release from Congresswoman Debbie Lesko, “Today, U.S Congresswoman Debbie Lesko (AZ-08) reintroduced the Dismemberment Abortion Ban Act to prohibit dismemberment abortions and allow a woman who undergoes a dismemberment abortion to file a civil action against the person who knowingly performs the procedure. Lesko also introduced this legislation in the 116th Congress. […] Lesko was joined by Representatives Rick Allen (R-GA-12), Brian Babin (R-TX-36), Jim Banks (R-IN-03), Andy Biggs (R-AZ-05), Ted Budd (R-NC-13)” [Press Release – Rep. Debbie Lesko, 1/29/21]

“Dismemberment Abortion” Was Term Anti-Abortion Activists Used To Describe Commonly Used Second-Trimester Procedure

Physicians Said The Term “Dismemberment Abortion” Was Medically Inaccurate And Used By Anti-Abortion Activists. According to Bridge Michigan, “But opponents of the summary language, from physicians to Planned Parenthood, say the label ‘dismemberment abortion’ is inflammatory and medically inaccurate — and state canvassers shouldn’t have allowed it to appear on ballot petitions circulated to voters. ‘That’s a term that has been made up or fabricated by folks who are anti-choice, or anti-abortion, in order to try to invoke graphic images and stir emotions and cause people to vote or sign a proposal in a reactionary way,’ Dr. Halley Crissman, an obstetrician and gynecologist who spoke on behalf of the Michigan Section of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists at Wednesday’s meeting, told Bridge in an interview. ‘We think that the term ‘dilation and evacuation’ accurately describes what the procedure actually is — the dilation of the cervix and the evacuation of the contents of the uterus — and it would be more neutral and less biased if the proposal used that language,’ Crissman said.” [Bridge Michigan, 6/20/19]

Abortion Rights Groups Said Eliminating Dilation And Evacuation Would Force Women Who Did Not Or Could Not Get An Abortion In The First Trimester To Choose Less Safe, Less Effective Options. According to the Associated Press, “Texas officials asked a federal appeals court’s permission Tuesday to enforce a ban on a commonly used second-trimester abortion procedure — before the court rules on its constitutionality. A three-judge panel of the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans heard arguments on the law in November 2018. But the panel had yet to rule as of Tuesday. Last week, the same panel declined a Texas motion to allow enforcement of the law while it prepares its ruling. So, Texas officials on Tuesday asked the full 17-member court to consider the matter, essentially doing an end run around the panel. The 2017 law uses the non-medical term ‘dismemberment abortion’ to describe a procedure in which forceps and other instruments are used to remove the fetus from the womb, a process the Texas Legislature declared ‘brutal and inhumane.’ Abortion rights groups say the procedure, used in second-trimester abortions, is known as dilation and evacuation, and that eliminating it forces women who did not or could not get an abortion in the first trimester, to choose less safe, less effective options.” [Associated Press, 8/25/20]

Domestic Gag Rule

Budd SUpported Domestic Gag Rule

2019: Budd Voted For Roby’s Amendment To The Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, Defense, State, Foreign Operations, and Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act. [House Vote 267, 6/12/19;  Congressional Actions H.R. 2740]

Roby’s Amendment Tried To Strike Language That Blocked Enforcement Of Trump’s Domestic Gag Rule Restricting Title X Federal Family Planning Funding. According to Rewire, “When House Democrats drafted their 2020 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies (LHHS) funding bill (HR 2740) in April, they included language to block the Trump administration’s rule restricting Title X federal family planning funding, dubbed the domestic ‘gag rule’ by reproductive rights advocates. The restriction is held up in court, but if implemented, it would ban health providers receiving Title X funding from making abortion referrals and force abortion providers to physically and financially separate abortion services from family planning services to receive the funding. Republicans attempted to strike the pro-choice language on Title X from the funding bill through an amendment proposed by Rep. Martha Roby (R-AL). But the amendment failed to garner enough votes in the House, where pro-choice Democrats hold a majority. Three Democrats voted with Roby to preserve the Trump administration’s anti-choice policy: Reps. Dan Lipinski (IL), Henry Cuellar (TX), and Collin Peterson (MN).” [Rewire, 6/18/19]

Down Syndrome

Budd Supported Abortion Ban On The Basis Of Down Syndrome

2021: Budd Co-Sponsored Legislation To Prohibit Abortions On The Basis Of Down Syndrome. According to a press release from Congressman Ron Estes, “Rep. Ron Estes, R-Kan., has introduced legislation (H.R. 532) to amend title 18, U.S. Code, ‘to prohibit discrimination by abortion against an unborn child on the basis of Down syndrome.’ The bill was introduced on Jan. 28 and has 29 co-sponsors. Co-sponsors include Reps. Pete Stauber, R-Minn., Randy Weber, R-Texas, Doug Lamborn, R-Colo., Ted Budd, R-N.C.” [Press Release – Rep. Ron Estes, 1/30/21]

Embryonic Stem Cell Research

Budd Supported Ending Federal Funding For Embryonic Stem Cell Research

2020: Budd Signed A Letter Calling For Ending Taxpayer Funding Of Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research At The National Institutes Of Health. According to a press release from Senator Roger Wicker, “The office of Sen. Roger Wicker issued the following news release: Today U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., along with U.S. Representative Andy Harris, M.D., R-Md., led a group of 94 legislators from both chambers of Congress to thank President Donald J. Trump for his efforts to support pro-life policies and request that he end taxpayer funding for human embryonic stem cell (hESC) research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). […] Ted Budd” [Press Release – Sen. Roger Wicker, 9/4/20]

Fetal Remains Burial

Budd Supported Requirements For Fetal Remains Disposal

2021: Budd Co-Sponsored Legislation Requiring The Disposal Of Fetal Remains To Occur In The Same Way As Any Other Human Remains. According to a press release from Congressman Jim Banks, “The Dignity for Aborted Children Act would hold abortion providers accountable if they fail to provide for the proper burial or cremation of aborted fetal remains. First introduced in 2019 after the discovery of 2,411 of human fetal remains in the possession of longtime Indiana abortionist Ulrich Klopfer, the legislation would build on the Indiana law enacted in 2016 and upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court requiring dignified disposition of aborted fetal remains. In February 2020, the remains discovered on Klopfer's property and in his car were buried in a dignified ceremony in South Bend, Ind. The Dignity for Aborted Children Act would:* Require abortion providers to dispose of aborted fetal remains just as they would any other human remains. Failure to do so would be punishable by a fine and up to five years in prison. […] Walorski and Banks introduced the legislation along with 39 original cosponsors, including Reps. Robert Aderholt (R-Ala.), Rick Allen (R-Ga.), Brian Babin (R-Texas), Jim Baird (R-Ind.), Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), Mike Bost (R-Ill.), Larry Bucshon (R-Ind.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.)” [Press Release – Rep. Jim Banks, 1/21/21]

Fetal Tissue Research

Budd Opposed Omnibus Legislation Because It Did Not Include A Ban Of Funding For Fetal Tissue Research

September 2018: Budd Voted Against The Omnibus Spending Bill Because Of “The Lack Of Pro-Life Priorities, Specifically Its Failure To Block Funding For Research Using Aborted Fetal Tissue.” According to a press release from Congressman Ted Budd, “U.S. Representative Ted Budd (R-NC) released the following statement after voting against the Department of Defense and Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Act, 2019 and Continuing Appropriations Act, 2019: ‘I voted against the spending bill today because it lacked many conservative priorities that were promised to the American people. ‘My biggest issue with this bill was the lack of pro-life priorities - specifically its failure to block funding for research using aborted fetal tissue and the fact that it provided funding for abortion providers. To me, the rights of the unborn is a critical moral issue of our time and I have promised my constituents that I will fight for life.” [Press Release – Rep. Ted Budd, 9/26/18]

Budd Supported Banning Fetal Tissue Research

2021: Budd Co-Sponsored Legislation To Prohibit The Department Of Health And Human Services From Conducting Or Supporting Any Research Involving Human Fetal Tissue That Was Obtained Pursuant To An Induced Abortion. According to a press release from Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer, “Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer, R-Mo., has introduced legislation (H.R. 563) to amend the Public Health Service Act ‘to prohibit the Secretary of Health and Human Services from conducting or supporting any research involving human fetal tissue that is obtained pursuant to an induced abortion.’ The bill was introduced on Jan. 28 and has 52 co-sponsors. Co-sponsors include Reps. Alex X. Mooney, R-W.Va., Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., Steven M. Palazzo, R-Miss., John Joyce, R-Pa., Rick Allen, R-Ga., Jeff Duncan, R-S.C., Ralph Norman, R-S.C., Randy Weber, R-Texas, Thomas Tiffany, R-Wis., Doug Lamborn, R-Colo., Mike Kelly, R-Pa., Jim Banks, R-Ind., Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, Ron Wright, R-Texas, Steve Chabot, R-Ohio, Ted Budd” [Press Release – Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer, 1/30/21]

Health Coverage

Budd Supported The No Taxpayer Funding For Abortion And Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act 

2017: Budd Voted To Support Legislation Would “Prohibit The Use Of Federal Funds Going Toward Abortions Or To Purchase Insurance Plans Covering Abortions With Specific Expectations.” According to a press release from Rep. Ted Budd, “The following information was released by the office of North Carolina Rep. Ted Budd: Today, Representative Ted Budd (NC-13) voted to support legislation that will prohibit the use of federal funds going toward abortions or to purchase insurance plans covering abortions with specific expectations. ‘Putting taxpayers across the nation on the hook for abortion funding is immoral and irresponsible,’ said Rep. Budd. ‘This legislation takes the common-sense steps of ensuring no federal funds can be used to pay for abortions.’ The No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion And Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act 2017 will bar abortion services from being provided by federally employed doctors and health-care professionals or within federally owned or operated health-care facilities.” [Press Release from Rep. Ted Budd, 1/24/17]

• The No Taxpayer Funding For Abortion And Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act Would Permanently Prohibit Government Funding For Abortions, Including Through Medicaid And Other Health-Insurance Programs. According to the News & Record, “FUNDING ABORTIONS: The House has passed the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion and Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act, which would permanently prohibit government funding for abortions, including through Medicaid and other health-insurance programs. The vote, on Jan. 24, was 238-183. YEAS: Budd, Walker” [News & Record, 1/29/17]

2019: Budd Co-Sponsored H.R. 20, The No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion and Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act of 2019. According to a press release from Congressman Chris Smith, “Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J., has introduced legislation (H.R. 20) to prohibit taxpayer funded abortions. The bill was introduced on Jan. 17 and has 68 co-sponsors. Co-sponsors include […] Ted Budd” [Press Release – Rep. Chris Smith, 1/18/19]

2021: Budd Stood On The House Floor In Opposition Of “Tax Payer Funded Abortions” And In Support Of H.R. 18, The No Taxpayer Funding For Abortion And Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act. According to Congressional Documents and Publications, “​​Since 1973, both sides of the aisle have agreed that taxpayers should not be forced to fund the taking of an unborn child's life through abortion. This consensus was enshrined in the Hyde Amendment. The Hyde Amendment has saved the lives of almost two and a half million children nationwide, including over 65,000 in North Carolina. Unfortunately, President Biden and congressional Democrats have decided to abandon the Hyde Amendment in this year's budget. This is a grave mistake that will cost the lives of more innocent children and therefore, it must be reversed. So let's show that this House stands with life, believes in science, and opposes the evil of abortion. Madam Speaker, I ask for unanimous consent that the committees on Energy and Commerce, Ways and Means, and the Judiciary be discharged from further consideration of H.R. 18, and I ask for its immediate consideration in the House.” [Congressional Documents and Publications, 7/21/21]

Budd Tweeted: “Taxpayer Dollars Should Never Be Used To Fund Abortions. The House Should Take Up The No Taxpayer Funding For Abortion Act (H.R. 18) And Pass It. #Savehyde #Prolife” [@RepTedBudd, 7/24/21]

Budd Co-Sponsored The “Abortion Is Not Health Care Act”

2019: Budd Co-Sponsored Legislation “To Provide That Amounts Paid For An Abortion Are Not Taken Into Account For Purposes Of The Deduction For Medical Expenses.” According to a press release from Congressman Andy Biggs, “Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., has introduced legislation (H.R. 2742) to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 ‘to provide that amounts paid for an abortion are not taken into account for purposes of the deduction for medical expenses.’ The bill was introduced on May 15 and has 19 co-sponsors. Co-sponsors include Reps. Randy Weber, R-Texas, Ted Budd, R-N.C.” [Press Release – Rep. Andy Biggs, 5/17/19]

2021: Budd Co-Sponsored The “Abortion Is Not Health Care Act” To End The IRS’s Treatment Of Out-Of-Pocket Abortion Costs As A Medical Expense. According to a press release from Congressman Andy Biggs, “Abortion Is Not Health Care Act - This bill ends the Internal Revenue Service's treatment of out-of-pocket abortion costs as a medical expense. Cosponsors: Jeff Duncan (SC-03), Ralph Norman (SC-05), Matt Gaetz (FL-01), Alex Mooney (WV-02), Ted Budd (NC-13)” [Press Release – Rep. Andy Biggs, 1/22/21]

Budd Supported Prohibiting Federal COVID Funds From Being Used On Abortion Health Care Coverage

2020: Budd Co-Sponsored Legislation To Prohibit COVID-19 Response Funds From Going Towards Abortions Or Abortion Coverage As Well As Tax Credits Being Used To Cover Any Post-Employment Healthcare Premiums That Include Abortion Coverage. According to a press release from Congressman Mike Conaway, “Today, Congressman Mike Conaway (TX-11) led 38 cosponsors in introducing the Protecting Life in Crisis Act. This legislation prohibits federal COVID-19 response funds from going towards abortions or abortion coverage by extending existing Hyde Amendment protections to any COVID-19-related healthcare provisions. The bill also prevents federal tax credits from being used to cover any post-employment healthcare (COBRA) premiums that include abortion coverage. […] The 38 original cosponsors include: […] Rep. Ted Budd” [Press Release – Rep. Mike Conaway, 5/8/20]

• Budd Said “We Should Not Allow This Global Pandemic To Be Used As Political Cover To Funnel Taxpayer Money To The Abortion Industry.” According to a press release from Congressman Ted Budd, “Rep. Ted Budd (R-NC) co-sponsored the Protecting Life in Crisis Act, which prohibits any funding related to COVID-19 from being used to fund abortions. Rep. Budd said in a statement: ‘Americans from every walk of life are coming together to battle the Coronavirus. We should not allow this global pandemic to be used as political cover to funnel taxpayer money to the abortion industry. Now more than ever, the sanctity of life must be preserved.’” [Press Release – Rep. Ted Budd, 5/11/20]

2021: Budd Co-Sponsored Legislation Prohibiting “The Expenditure For An Abortion Of Federal Funds Authorized Or Appropriated For Preventing, Preparing For, Or Responding To The COVID-19 Pandemic.” According to a press release from Congressman Brian Babin, “Rep. Brian Babin, R-Texas, has introduced legislation (H.R. 28) to ‘prohibit the expenditure for an abortion of Federal funds authorized or appropriated for preventing, preparing for, or responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.’ The bill was introduced on Jan. 4 and has 44 co-sponsors. Co-sponsors include Reps. Robert B. Aderholt, R-Ala., Rick Allen, R-Ga., Jim Baird, R-Ind., Jack Bergman, R-Mich., Dan Bishop, R-N.C., Mike Bost, R-Ill., Ted Budd, R-N.C.” [Press Release – Rep. Brian Babin, 1/6/21]

Budd Said Abortions Were Not Essential And Called For Abortions To Be Suspended During The Pandemic

Budd Called For “Elective Abortions To Be Suspended During” The COVID Pandemic. According to an op-ed by Ted Budd published by the Rhino Times, “This has to stop. If the abortion industry would voluntarily put health and safety before profits, we would all be better off – but they have proven unwilling. That’s why we stand with medical associations representing over 30,000 physicians who are calling for elective abortions to be suspended during this crisis, and why local leaders must stop turning a blind eye to the dire consequences of continuing abortion procedures during this pandemic. North Carolinians value life and we love our neighbors. It’s a hardship to be forced to stay indoors and refrain from going to work, school, church, or the doctor for medical treatment. Our leaders are trying to balance public health and liberty.  But, Democrat politicians should stop hypocritically pandering to the abortion industry and increasing the risk to the health and well-being of the unborn, mothers in need, and society at large.” [Ted Budd Op-Ed – Rhino Times, 4/23/20]

Budd Said That Abortion Cannot Be Both A Woman’s Choice And “Essential” Medical Care. According to an op-ed by Ted Budd published by the Rhino Times, “The abortion industry, led by Planned Parenthood and their Democratic allies, insist that abortion is ‘essential’ and must continue at all costs. In at least one state, it is the only ‘service’ that businesses are still offering on the premises while the pandemic is ongoing. In other states where governors have made it clear abortion is not exempt, the abortion lobby is going to court to demand a special exception to the rules everyone else is expected to follow. This is yet another example of how radical the pro-abortion movement has become. Not so long ago, advocates of abortion still described it as a woman’s choice. Now they say it is ‘essential’ medical care. It can’t be both. Indeed, how can it be essential when more than 85 percent of practicing ob/gyns do not perform elective abortions?” [Ted Budd Op-Ed – Rhino Times, 4/23/20]

Heartbeat Bills

Budd Co-Sponsored Legislation That Effectively Banned Abortions Around 6 Weeks

2019: Budd Co-Sponsored Legislation To “Prohibit Abortion In Cases Where A Fetal Heartbeat Is Detectable.” According to a press release from Congressman Steve King, “Rep. Steve King, R-Iowa, has introduced legislation (H.R. 490) to amend title 18, U.S. Code, to prohibit abortion in cases where a fetal heartbeat is detectable. The bill was introduced on Jan. 11 and has 72 co-sponsors. Co-sponsors include […] Ted Budd, R-N.C.” [Press Release – Rep. Steve King, 1/12/19]

• Legislation Effectively Banned Abortions Around Six Weeks, Once A Fetal Heartbeat Is Detected. According to the Daily Beast, “In 2017, King authored the Heartbeat Protection Act, which effectively banned abortions around six weeks, once a fetal heartbeat is detected. The legislation was cheered by ardent anti-abortion activists. But it proved to be too controversial for then-House Speaker Paul Ryan, who declined to bring it up for a vote.” [Daily Beast, 5/31/19]

2021: Budd Co-Sponsored Legislation To “Prohibit Abortion In Cases Where A Fetal Heartbeat Is Detectable.” According to a press release from Congressman Mike Kelly. “Rep. Mike Kelly, R-Pa., has introduced legislation (H.R. 705) to amend title 18, U.S. Code, ‘to prohibit abortion in cases where a fetal heartbeat is detectable.’ The bill was introduced on Feb. 2 and has 41 co-sponsors. Co-sponsors include Reps. Louie Gohmert, R-Texas, John Joyce, R-Pa., Scott Perry, R-Pa., Fred Keller, R-Pa., Alex X. Mooney, R-W.Va., Ted Budd, R-N.C.” [Press Release – Rep. Mike Kelly, 2/4/21]

Higher Education

Budd Supported Withholding Funds For HIgher Education Institutions That Hosted Or Were Affiliated With Abortion Providers

2021: Budd Co-Sponsored Legislation Prohibiting Federal Funds From Going To Any Institution Of Higher Learning That Hosts Or Was Affiliated With A Student-Based Service That Provides Abortion Drugs Or Abortion To Students Or Employees Of The Institution. According to a press release from Congresswoman Mary Miller, “Today, House co-lead Rep. Mary Miller (IL-15) along with Congressman Chip Roy (TX-21) introduced the Protecting Life on College Campus Act of 2021 with Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT), the Founder and Chairman of the Senate Pro-Life Caucus, introducing the legislation in the Senate. The bill would prohibit Federal funds from going to any institution of higher learning that hosts or is affiliated with a student-based service site that provides abortion drugs or abortion to students of the institution or to employees of the institution or site. […] Ted Budd (NC-13)” [Press Release – Rep. Mary Miller, 7/21/21]

Hyde Amendment

Budd Supported Making The Hyde Amendment Permanent

Budd Co-Signed A Letter To Donald Trump Calling For The Hyde Amendment To Be Made Permanent. According to a press release form Congressman Robert Pittenger, “Complementing a letter from President Trump to pro-life leaders during the campaign, Congressman Pittenger's letter specifically cites four priorities: Nominating pro-life justices to the U.S. Supreme Court Enacting the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act Ending taxpayer funding of the abortion industry, specifically Planned Parenthood, the nation's largest abortion provider Making the Hyde Amendment permanent and government-wide law […] The letter was co-signed by United States Representatives […] Ted Budd (NC-13)” [Congressman Robert Pittenger Press Release, 1/27/17]

Budd Touted The Hyde Amendment

Budd Touted The Hyde Amendment, Stating That “Taxpayer Dollars Should Never Be Used To End An Unborn Baby’s Life. #HydeSavesLives #ProLife.” [Twitter - @RepTedBudd, 9/8/21]

2021: Budd Signed A Letter To Mitch McConnell And Kevin McCarthy Urging Opposition To Any Legislation That Does Not Include Provisions Protecting The Sanctity Of Life Such As The Hyde Amendment. According to a press release from Congressman Tom Cole, “Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) joined in sending a letter, led by Congressman Andy Biggs (AZ-05) and signed by 46 House Republicans, to House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy and Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell encouraging them to oppose President Biden's budget proposal and any legislation that does not include provisions protecting the sanctity of life, such as the Hyde Amendment. […] All 46 co-signers are listed below: Congressman Jeff Duncan (SC-03), Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15), Congressman Bob Gibbs (OH-07), Congressman Scott Perry (PA-04), Congressman Matt Rosendale (MT- At Large), Congressman Jody Hice (GA-10), Congressman Clay Higgins (LA-03), Congressman Dan Meuser (PA-09), Congressman Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05), Congressman Ted Budd (NC-13)” [Press Release – Rep. Tom Cole, 6/25/21]

Mandatory Ultrasound

Budd Supported Mandatory Ultrasounds Before Abortions

2021: Budd Co-Sponsored Legislation Requiring Women Seeking An Abortion To Receive An Ultrasound. According to a press release from Congressman Jeff Duncan, “Rep. Jeff Duncan, R-S.C., has introduced legislation (H.R. 648) to ‘ensure that women seeking an abortion receive an ultrasound and the opportunity to review the ultrasound before giving informed consent to receive an abortion.’ The bill was introduced on Feb. 1 and has 28 co-sponsors. Co-sponsors include Reps. Ralph Norman, R-S.C., Ted Budd” [Press Release – Rep. Jeff Duncan, 2/3/21]

Medication

Budd Wanted To Classify Mifeprex As A “hazard To Public Health”

2020: Budd Signed A Letter To The FDA To Classify Mifeprex As An “Imminent Hazard To Public Health.” According to a press release from Congressman Jody Hice, “The following information was released by the office of Georgia Rep. Jody Hice: Congressman Jody Hice (GA-10) led a group of 71 House Republican colleagues in urging the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Stephen Hahn to exercise the FDA's authority to classify the abortion pill Mifeprex, also known as mifepristone, as an ‘imminent hazard to the public health’ that poses a ‘significant threat of danger’ and remove it from the market to protect both expecting mothers and their unborn babies. […] The 71 Members of Congress who cosigned and support this important call to action include: Ralph Abraham; Rick Allen; Kelly Armstrong; Brian Babin; Jim Banks; Andy Biggs; Mike Bost; Kevin Brady; Larry Buschon; Ted Budd” [Press Release – Rep. Jody Hice, 9/2/20]

Budd Supported Strengthening Federal Regulation Of Abortion Medication

2021: Budd Co-Sponsored Legislation To Strengthen Federal Controls Over The Regulation And Distribution Of Abortion Medication. According to a press release from Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith, “U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) and Congressman Bob Latta (R-Ohio) today reintroduced their Support and Value Expectant (SAVE) Moms and Babies Act to strengthen federal controls over the regulation and distribution of chemical abortion drugs. The SAVE Moms and Babies Act would prevent labeling changes for already-approved abortion drugs; prevent providers from dispensing these drugs remotely, by mail, or via tele-medicine; and prevent the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) from approving new chemical abortion drugs. […] Ted Budd” [Press Release – Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, 1/28/21]

• Legislation Was Designed To Prevent The FDA From Lifting Regulations That Would Make Medication Abortion More Accessible, Potentially Through Telemedicine Providers Or Over-The-Counter Without A Prescription. According to the Jackson Free Press, “U.S. Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith is joining other anti-abortion politicians who are increasingly prioritizing legislative efforts designed to restrict access to federally approved abortion medication. The Republican senator, who through a 2018 gubernatorial appointment became the first woman in Mississippi to serve in either house of Congress, announced the Support and Value Expectant (SAVE) Moms and Babies Act to the upper chamber along with U.S. Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas on Dec. 17. Mississippi's other U.S. senator, Roger Wicker, joined several other Republicans who signed on as co-sponsors. The bill is designed to prevent the FDA from lifting regulations that would make medication abortion more accessible, potentially through telemedicine providers or over-the-counter without a perscription.” [Jackson Free Press, 12/16/19]

Budd Supported Abortion Pill Reversal Legislation

2021: Budd Co-Sponsored The Second Chance At Life Act Which Requires Telling Women Seeking An Abortion That It May Be Possible To Reverse The Intended Effects. According to a press release from Congressman Doug Lamborn, “Rep. Doug Lamborn, R-Colo., has introduced legislation (H.R. 552) to ‘ensure that a woman seeking a chemical abortion is informed that it may be possible to reverse the intended effects of the abortion if the woman changes her mind.’ The bill was introduced on Jan. 28 and has 60 co-sponsors. Co-sponsors include Reps. August Pfluger, R-Texas, Rick Allen, R-Ga., Jeff Duncan, R-S.C., Robert J. Wittman, R-Va., Ralph Norman, R-S.C., Brian Babin, R-Texas, Mike Kelly, R-Pa., Ted Budd” [Press Release – Rep. Doug Lamborn, 1/30/21]

Mexico City Policy

Budd Supported Mexico City Policy

Ted Budd Said That He Supported The Mexico City Policy And Supported A Resolution To “Honor The Policy’s 35^th Anniversary.” According to a press release from Congressman Andy Biggs, “My faith and upbringing continually lead me to the position that all human life is sacred and has value. In that vein, I support the Mexico City Policy, first instituted by the Reagan Administration, and want to thank my friend Andy Biggs for introducing this resolution to honor the policy's 35th anniversary.” – Congressman Ted Budd (NC-13)” [Congressman Andy Biggs Press Release, 8/13/19]

• Mexico City Policy Barred Federal Funding For Foreign Non-Governmental Organizations That Provided Abortion Counseling Or Services. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, “Historically, the policy required foreign non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to certify that they would not ‘perform or actively promote abortion as a method of family planning’ using funds from any source (including non-U.S. funds) as a condition of receiving U.S. government global family planning funding. President Trump reinstated the policy but also significantly expanded it to encompass the vast majority of U.S. bilateral global health assistance.” [Kaiser Family Foundation, 1/28/21]

Roe v. Wade

Budd Signed Onto Amicus Brief In Support Of Overturning Roe V. Wade

Budd Was A Signatory Of Amicus Brief In Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization.

[Brief Amici Curiae Of 228 Members Of Congress In Support Of Petitioners, 7/29/21]

Mississippi Expressly Asked The Supreme Court To Overturn Roe V. Wade. According to Forbes, “The case, Dobbs v. Jackson’s Women’s Health, concerns Mississippi’s abortion ban and the broader question of whether abortions before a fetus is viable are constitutional, as the court’s precedent in Roe v. Wade stipulates they are. Mississippi’s law bans all abortions after 15 weeks except in cases of medical emergencies and ‘severe fetal abnormalities,’ and was struck down by the lower courts after being first passed in 2018. Mississippi has expressly asked the court to overturn Roe v. Wade, claiming in a court filing the landmark 1973 ruling is ‘egregiously wrong.’” [Forbes, 9/20/21]

Budd Said Roe V. Wade Was “Passed Wrongfully And Tragically”

Budd Posted On Facebook: “On This Day 48 Years Ago, Roe V. Wade Was Passed Wrongfully And Tragically By The Supreme Court. Due To This Decision, Millions Of Innocent Unborn Children Have Lost Their Loves. I Have Always Remained Committed To Standing Up For Life And Will Continue To Do So Because Every Life Is Sacred.” According to Ted Budd’s Facebook, “On this day 48 years ago, Roe v. Wade was passed wrongfully and tragically by The Supreme Court. Due to this decision, millions of innocent unborn children have lost their lives. I have always remained committed to standing up for life and will continue to do so because every life is sacred. Will you join me by signing your name?” [Ted Budd, 1/22/21]

Budd Enthusiastically Supported The Supreme Court’s Leaked Decision That Sought To Overturn Roe

[AUDIO] Budd Stated That Overturning Roe V. Wade “Could Really Protect Life In The Womb, Which Is Something That That Our Country Needs.” “You can tell it's going to be a wild ride. We, you know, we pray for our country. We remember the unborn, and this could be a great this could be you know, this overturning could really protect life in the womb, which is something that that our country needs.” [Ted Budd, KC O’Dea, 5/3/22]; 220503_HMF_802_A

Budd: “I Continue To Pray That The Justices Reach A Decision That Upholds The Sanctity Of Life And Guarantees The Right To Life For Innocent Unborn Children.” Budd tweeted, “This unprecedented leak was wrong and damages the Supreme Court. I continue to pray that the justices reach a decision that upholds the sanctity of life and guarantees the right to life for innocent unborn children. #ProLife” [Twitter, @RepTedBudd, 5/3/22]

Budd Tweeted His Support For Overturning Roe V. Wade. According to Ted Budd’s Twitter, “Science makes clear that life exists in the womb: - A baby has a heartbeat at 5 weeks. - A baby has a fully developed heart at 15 weeks. - A baby feels pain at 20 weeks. Unborn children deserve the most fundamental human right: The right to live. #ProLife #DobbsvJackson” [Ted Budd, 12/1/21]

Budd Opposed Efforts At Codifying Roe V. Wade INto Federal Law

2021: Budd Voted Against The Women’s Health Protection Act, Which Would Prohibit Abortion Restrictions And Establish That Health Care Providers Have A Right To Provide Abortions And Individuals Have The Right To Receive An Abortion. In September 2021, Budd voted against the Women's Health Protection Act of 2021 which would, according to Congressional Quarterly, “statutorily establish that health care providers have a right to provide and patients have a right to receive abortion services, and it would prohibit certain restrictions related to abortion services.” The vote was on passage. The House passed the bill by a vote of 218-211. [House Vote 295, 9/24/21; Congressional Quarterly, 9/24/21; Congressional Actions, H.R. 3755]

• The Measure Would Prohibit Restrictions Imposed By States, Including Mandatory Waiting Periods And Limitation On When A Pregnancy Can Be Terminated. According to Congressional Quarterly, “The bill would prohibit some state-level restrictions such as bans on mandatory waiting periods and limits on when during pregnancy an abortion can be performed.” [Congressional Quarterly, 9/24/21]
• Legislation Would Codify Abortion Rights Protections Amid Threats To Roe v. Wade. According to NBC News, “The House passed legislation Friday that would codify abortion rights protections amid threats to Roe v. Wade from a Texas law banning most abortions and a wave of restrictions in other states. The measure advanced along party lines in a 218-211 vote, with only one Democrat, Rep. Henry Cuellar of Texas, voting against it. The legislation now faces a dead end in the evenly split Senate, where Democrats would need at least 10 Republicans to support the bill for it to advance to a final vote.” [NBC News, 9/24/21]

Budd Said The Legislation Was “Disgusting.” Budd tweeted, “Disgusting -- House Democrats just voted against protecting a baby that was born alive after an attempted abortion. The truth is that life begins at conception and every unborn child deserves to be protected.” [Twitter, @RepTedBudd, 9/24/21]

Budd Tweeted That He Was “Adamantly Opposed” To Legislation Guaranteeing Abortion Access. [Twitter, @TedBuddNC, 9/2/21]

Personhood

Budd Co-Sponsored Personhood Legislation

Budd Was A Co-Sponsor Of H.R. 1011, The Life At Conception Act

Ted Budd Was A Co-Sponsor Of H.R. 1011, The Life At Conception Act. [Congress.gov, H.R.1011 — 117th Congress (2021-2022), 2/11/21]

Personhood Amendments Could Outlaw Birth Control And In Vitro Fertilization. According to NPR, “Personhood amendments were on the ballot in several states about a decade ago. They were rejected by voters even in conservative states like Mississippi after opponents argued that recognizing life at fertilization would outlaw not just abortion, without exceptions, but also things like in vitro fertilization and many forms of contraception, including some birth control pills, ‘morning after’ pills, and intrauterine devices (IUDs) that some think could cause very early abortions by preventing a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus. (More recent scientific evidence suggests nearly all those methods actually prevent ovulation, not implantation, but courts haven't always followed the science on that.)” [NPR, 11/3/20]

Budd Co-Sponsored The Recognizing The Unborn Act

Budd Co-Sponsored The Recognizing The Unborn Act Which Sought To Create a Federal Fetal Personhood Law. Budd tweeted, “Proud to be a sponsor of this important bill from @RepDLamborn. Our laws should absolutely reflect the fact that human life exists in the womb. Unborn children deserve the fundamental right to live. #ProLife. [Twitter, @RepTedBudd, 12/2/22]

Planned Parenthood

Budd Supported Defunding Planned Parenthood

Budd Co-Signed A Letter To Donald Trump Calling For Ending Funding Of Planned Parenthood. According to a press release form Congressman Robert Pittenger, “Complementing a letter from President Trump to pro-life leaders during the campaign, Congressman Pittenger's letter specifically cites four priorities: Nominating pro-life justices to the U.S. Supreme Court Enacting the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act Ending taxpayer funding of the abortion industry, specifically Planned Parenthood, the nation's largest abortion provider Making the Hyde Amendment permanent and government-wide law […] The letter was co-signed by United States Representatives […] Ted Budd (NC-13)” [Congressman Robert Pittenger Press Release, 1/27/17]

Budd Said “Defunding Planned Parenthood” Was A “Sign Of Progress.” According to a press release from Rep. Ted Budd, “With 2018's March for Life happening Friday, it's an important reminder that the fight to protect the unborn must continue in Congress and in communities around the country. The good news is that the pro-life movement has made progress over the last few years, even if it's just marginal. Crazy as this sounds, twenty years ago it would have been nearly impossible to get Congress to vote on banning abortion after twenty weeks - the point at which science tells us a baby can feel pain. One of the votes I'm most proud to have taken last year was one that would ban abortion after 20 weeks. This common sense ‘Pain Capable’ bill passed through the House with 237 votes and now, like many other promising bills, sits in the Senate awaiting action. Another sign of progress for the pro-life movement are the multiple bills we passed in the House to completely defund Planned Parenthood. The latest report from Planned Parenthood for 2015 shows that they performed over 320,000 abortions in one year alone. This is downright evil, and I have one simple question: how many innocent lives does Planned Parenthood need to terminate before we say enough is enough? As I was sworn into Congress, I promised to defend the three things we guarantee in our country - life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. While there's work to do on all three of those fronts, nothing is as clear cut as the right to life. Voting to ban abortions after 20 weeks and defunding Planned Parenthood are signs of progress, but they're only a start. To protect more lives in the years to come, we'll need to win over hearts and minds in our communities here in North Carolina and around the country.” [Press Release from Rep. Ted Budd, 1/22/18]

Budd Co-Sponsored Legislation To Defund Planned Parenthood

2019: Budd Co-Sponsored Legislation To “Prohibit Family Planning Grants From Being Awarded To Any Entity That Performs Abortions.” According to a press release from Rep. Virginia Foxx, “Rep. Virginia Foxx, R-N.C., has introduced legislation (H.R. 296) to amend title X of the Public Health Service Act ‘to prohibit family planning grants from being awarded to any entity that performs abortions.’ The bill was introduced on Jan. 8 and has 64 co-sponsors. Co-sponsors include […] Ted Budd” [Press Release – Rep. Virginia Foxx, 1/10/19]

• Legislation Would Defund Planned Parenthood. According to a press release from Rep. Virginia Foxx, “Yesterday, Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.) introduced H.R. 296, the Title X Abortion Provider Prohibition Act. This bill codifies President Trump’s Protect Life Rule that excludes abortion providers, including Planned Parenthood, from receiving Title X funding. H.R. 296 prohibits awards of federal family planning grants to entities that perform elective abortions and increases reporting requirements for the Department of Health and Human Services for more transparency and accountability.” [Press Release – Rep. Virginia Foxx, 1/9/19]

2021: Budd Co-Sponsored Legislation To “Prohibit Family Planning Grants From Being Awarded To Any Entity That Performs Abortions.” According to a press release from Rep. Virginia Foxx, “Rep. Virginia Foxx, R-N.C., has introduced legislation (H.R. 243) to amend title X of the Public Health Service Act ‘to prohibit family planning grants from being awarded to any entity that performs abortions.’ The bill was introduced on Jan. 11 and has 79 co-sponsors. Co-sponsors include Reps. Robert B. Aderholt, R-Ala., Ted Budd” [Press Release – Rep. Virginia Foxx, 1/13/21]

2021: Budd Co-Sponsored Legislation To “Restrict The Availability Of Federal Funds To Organizations Associated With The Abortion Industry.” According to a press release from Rep. Virginia Foxx, “Rep. Virginia Foxx, R-N.C., has introduced legislation (H.R. 534) to ‘restrict the availability of Federal funds to organizations associated with the abortion industry.’ The bill was introduced on Jan. 28 and has 27 co-sponsors. Co-sponsors include Reps. Alex X. Mooney, R-W.Va., Ted Budd” [Press Release – Rep. Virginia Foxx, 1/30/21]

2021: Budd Co-Sponsored Legislation Prohibiting Organizations That Perform Abortions From Receiving Federal Funding. According to a press release from Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach, “Today, Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-7) introduced the Protecting Life and Taxpayers Act of 2021. The bill prohibits organizations that perform abortions from receiving federal funding. […] Ted Budd (NC-13)” [Press Release – Rep. Michelle Fischbach, 4/16/21]

Budd Supported Texas Defunding Planned Parenthood

2019: Budd Signed An Amicus Brief In Support Of Texas’s Decision To Defund Planned Parenthood Under Its State Medicaid Program. According to a press release from Americans United for Life, “Today, Americans United for Life filed a ‘friend of the court’ brief on behalf of a group of 77 Members of Congress in the en banc Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, supporting Texas's decision to defund Planned Parenthood under its State Medicaid program. The case, Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas v. Phillips, arose after Texas disqualified Planned Parenthood as a State Medicaid Provider when undercover videos revealed that Planned Parenthood was involved in illegal and unethical behavior concerning aborted fetal body parts. […] Ted Budd (NC-13)” [Press Release – Americans United For Life, 3/19/19]

Budd Requested A Government Audit Of Planned Parenthood

2019: Budd Signed A Letter To Government Accountability Office Requesting Information On How Much Money Planned Parenthood Receives. According to a press release from Congressman Pete Olson, “The following information was released by the office of Texas Rep. Pete Olson: Today Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (MO-04), Congressman Pete Olson (TX-22) and Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) joined 119 Members of Congress in requesting a U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) report detailing how much federal money Planned Parenthood receives, in addition to several other domestic and international abortion providers. […] Ted Budd” [Press Release – Rep. Pete Olson, 5/10/19]

Budd Supported South Carolina Defunding Planned Parenthood

2020: Budd Signed An Amicus Brief In Support Of South Carolina’s Authority To Defund Planned Parenthood. According to a press release from Congressman Jeff Duncan, “Congressman Jeff Duncan, Senator Lindsey Graham, Senator Tim Scott, and Congressman Ralph Norman, along with 133 other Members of Congress, filed an amicus brief to the U.S. Supreme Court in support of states' authority to choose Medicaid providers and defund Planned Parenthood. Washington, D.C. Congressman Jeff Duncan, Senator Lindsey Graham, Senator Tim Scott, and Congressman Ralph Norman, along with 133 other Members of Congress, filed an amicus brief to the U.S. Supreme Court in support of states' authority to choose Medicaid providers and defund Planned Parenthood. […] Ted Budd (NC-13)” [Press Release – Rep. Jeff Duncan, 4/29/20]

Budd Supported Requiring Planned Parenthood To Return Paycheck Protection Program Money

2020: Budd Co-Sponsored Legislation Requiring Planned Parenthood Federation Of America And Its Affiliates To Return Any Funding Received Through The Paycheck Protection Program. According to a press release from Congresswoman Debbie Lesko, “Today, U.S. Congresswoman Debbie Lesko (AZ-08) introduced the Paycheck Protection Program Integrity Act, which requires the Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) and its affiliates to return any funding received through the Small Business Administration's (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). […] Congresswoman Lesko was joined by Representatives Robert Aderholt (AL-04), Jodey Arrington (TX-19), Brian Babin (TX-36), Jim Baird (IN-04), Jim Banks (IN-03), Andy Biggs (AZ-05), Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), Dan Bishop (NC-09), Ted Budd (NC-13)” [Press Release – Rep. Debbie Lesko, 7/27/20]

Budd Tweeted: “I Support The Trump Administration Holding Planned Parenthood Accountable For Taking Paycheck Protection Program Loans. They Should Have Never Gotten A Penny.” [Twitter, @TedBuddNC, 7/28/20]

Budd Tweeted That The Trump Administration Should Take Away Any Paycheck Protection Loans Planned Parenthood Received During The Covid-19 Pandemic. [Twitter, @TedBuddNC, 5/20/20]

2021: Budd Co-Sponsored Legislation To Prohibit Abortion Providers From Receive Paycheck Protection Program Loans. According to a press release from Congressman Gregory Murphy, “Rep. Gregory F. Murphy, R-N.C., has introduced legislation (H.R. 2849) to amend the Small Business Act ‘to prohibit abortion providers from receiving a covered loan under the paycheck protection program.’ The bill was introduced on April 26 and has 62 co-sponsors. Co-sponsors include Reps. Rick Allen, R-Ga., Brian Babin, R-Texas, Jim Banks, R-Ind., Gus Bilirakis, R-Fla., Dan Bishop, R-N.C., Lauren Boebert, R-Colo., Ted Budd” [Press Release – Rep. Greg Murphy, 4/28/21]

Budd Supported Allowing States To Exclude Planned Parenthood From RECEIVING Medicaid Funds

2020: Budd Co-Sponsored Legislation To “Allow For Greater State Flexibility With Respect To Excluding Providers Who Are Involved In Abortions.” According to a press release from Congressman Michael Cloud, “Rep. Michael Cloud, R-Texas, has introduced legislation (H.R. 8353) to amend title XIX of the Social Security Act ‘to allow for greater State flexibility with respect to excluding providers who are involved in abortions.’ The bill was introduced on Sept. 23 and has 51 co-sponsors. Co-sponsors include Reps. Jeff Duncan, R-S.C., Ted Budd” [Press Release – Rep. Michael Cloud, 9/25/20]

• Legislation Would Give States The Authority To Exclude Planned Parenthood From Receiving Medicaid Funds. According to a press release from Senator James Lankford, “Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today reintroduced the bicameral Women’s Public Health and Safety Act, which gives states the authority to exclude abortion providers, like Planned Parenthood, from receiving Medicaid funds. Congressman Michael Cloud (TX-27) introduced the House version of the bill on January 5, 2021. Under current law, states are required to allow any qualified provider to participate in a state’s Medicaid system. A non-partisan Government Accountability Office (GAO) report revealed that Planned Parenthood received nearly 1.3 billion in Medicaid reimbursements over a three year period, accounting for 81 percent of the abortion provider’s joint federal-state funding stream.” [Press Release – Sen. James Lankford, 1/28/21]

Teleabortion

Bud Supported A Ban On Teleabortion

2021: Budd Co-Sponsored Legislation Prohibiting Abortions Performed Without The Presence Of A Healthcare Provider. According to a press release from Rep. Bob Good, “Rep. Bob Good, R-Va., has introduced the Teleabortion Prevention Act (H.R. 5136) ‘to prohibit chemical abortions performed without the presence of a healthcare provider.’ The bill was introduced on Aug. 31 and has 43 co-sponsors. Co-sponsors include Reps. Randy Weber, R-Texas, Matthew M. Rosendale, R-Mont., Jim Banks, R-Ind., Brian Babin, R-Texas, Glenn R. Grothman, R-Wis., John Joyce, R-Pa., Mary E. Miller, R-Ill., Alex X. Mooney, R-W.Va., Ralph Norman, R-S.C., Jeff Duncan, R-S.C., Roger Williams, R-Texas, Trent Kelly, R-Miss., Doug Lamborn, R-Colo., Ted Budd” [Press Release – Rep. Bob Good, 9/2/21]

Texas Abortion Law

Budd Tweeted In Support Of The Texas Heartbeat Act

Budd Tweeted: “The Texas Heartbeat Act Is A Monumental Step Forward In The Movement To Protect Unborn Life. #Prolife” [@RepTedBudd, 9/1/21]

[VIDEO] Budd Stated That He Was “100 Percent Pro-Life” And Expressed Support For The Texas And Alabama Abortion Laws. HOST: “What about a definition of life bill to include time in the womb? And what about establishing Election day as a national holiday?” BUDD: “Great ideas on life. So background. I'm 100 percent pro-life, no matter how you measure it. So thank you for that. Is anything we can do for you? You will see everything that I do push you all the way back to the point of conception and supporting life and the sacredness of life. So I've got a good record on that. I'm seeing a lot in Texas and the Alabama court cases have demonstrated a lot of legal creativity.” [Pitt County GOP Meeting, 2/15/22]; 220215_HMF_632_A

Budd Praised The Creativity Of The Texas LAw

Budd Signed The Amicus Brief Urging The Courts To Review And Overturn Roe V. Wade And Praised The “Creativity” Of A Texas Law That Banned Abortion At Six Weeks And Empowered Private Citizens To Enforce The Law. According to The Hill, “He also signed the amicus brief urging the courts to review and overturn Roe v. Wade and has praised the ‘creativity’ of a Texas law that bans abortion at six weeks and empowers private citizens to enforce the law.  Budd has called the Texas Heartbeat Act a ‘monumental step forward in the movement to protect unborn life.’” [The Hill, 6/29/22]

Texas Abortion Law Did Not Include Exceptions And Deputized Private Citizens To Sue Abortion Providers

Texas Abortion Law Banned Most Abortions After About Six Weeks Of Pregnancy. According to the New York Times, “A Texas law banning most abortions after about six weeks of pregnancy went into effect on Wednesday, despite the 1973 Supreme Court decision that established a constitutional right to the procedure, making the state the most restrictive in the nation in terms of access to abortion services. Other states have passed similar laws, but those measures face legal challenges. The Texas law is the first to be implemented. On a vote of 5 to 4, the court refused just before midnight on Wednesday to block the law.” [New York Times, 9/1/21]

Texas Abortion Law Did Not Include Exceptions For Pregnancies Resulting From Rape Or Incest. According to the New York Times, “Does the law make exceptions for pregnancies resulting from rape or incest, or to protect the life of the mother? The law does not make exceptions for rape or incest. It does permit abortions for health reasons, but the exceptions are narrowly drawn, allowing a termination only if the pregnancy could endanger the mother’s life or lead to ‘substantial and irreversible impairment of a major bodily function,’ Ms. Nash noted.” [New York Times, 9/1/21]

Texas Abortion Law Deputized Private Citizens To Sue Anyone Who Performs An Abortion Or “Aids And Abets” A Procedure. According to the New York Times, “Doesn’t Roe v. Wade guarantee a woman’s right to abortion? Can the Texas law be challenged on constitutional grounds? The Texas law bars state officials from actually enforcing it, a design intended to make it difficult to challenge in the courts. Usually a lawsuit aiming to block such a law as unconstitutional names state officials as defendants. Instead, the Texas law deputizes private citizens to sue anyone who performs an abortion or ‘aids and abets’ a procedure. Plaintiffs who have no connection to the patient or the clinic may sue and recover legal fees, as well as $10,000 if they win.” [New York Times, 9/1/21]

Trap Laws

Budd Supported Louisiana’s Unconstitutional Trap Law

2020: Budd Signed An Amicus Brief In Support Of Louisiana’s Abortion Law That Requires All Abortion providers To Have Admitting Privileges At Local Hospitals When Emergencies Arrive. According to a press release from Congressman Steve Scalise, “The following information was released by the office of House Republican Whip Steve Scalise: House Republican Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.), Senator John Kennedy (R-La.), Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Congressman Mike Johnson (R-La.) led 207 Members of Congress today in filing an amicus brief to stand up for Louisiana's pro-life law before the U.S. Supreme Court that would require all abortion providers to have admitting privileges at local hospitals when emergencies arise. […] The amicus brief is supported by 207 Members of Congress, including […] Ted Budd” [Press Release – Rep. Steve Scalise, 1/2/20]

• June 2020: Supreme Court Struck Down The Louisiana Law. According to the New York Times, “The Supreme Court on Monday struck down a Louisiana law that could have left the state with a single abortion clinic, dashing the hopes of conservatives who were counting on President Trump’s appointments to lead the court to sustain restrictions on abortion rights and, eventually, to overrule Roe v. Wade. Instead, conservatives suffered a setback, and from an unlikely source. Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. added his crucial fifth vote to those of the court’s four-member liberal wing, saying that respect for precedent compelled him to do so, even though he had voted to uphold an essentially identical Texas law in a 2016 dissent.” [New York Times, 6/29/20]

Budd Co-Sponsored Federal Trap Law

2021: Budd Co-Sponsored Legislation To Require Abortion Providers To Have Admitting Privileges To A Local Hospital And To Adhere To Safety Standards. According to a press release from Congressman Andy Biggs, “Pregnant Women Health and Safety Act - This bill requires abortion providers to have admitting privileges to a local hospital and to adhere to basic safety standards. Cosponsors: Jeff Duncan (SC-03), Ralph Norman (SC-05), Matt Gaetz (FL-01), Alex Mooney (WV-02), Ted Budd (NC-13), Bob Gibbs (OH-07), David Rouzer (NC-07), Lance Gooden (TX-03), Ashley Hinson (IA-01), Bob Good (VA-05), Madison Cawthorn (NC-11), Barry Moore (AL-02), Markwayne Mullin (OK-02), Bill Johnson (OH-06), Rick Allen (GA-12), Fred Keller (PA-12), Greg Steube (FL-17)” [Press Release – Rep. Andy Biggs, 1/22/21]