1988: Pence Said “It Is My Philosophical Position To Oppose Abortion.” In a column for the Franklin Daily Journal, Ken Ward wrote, “Democratic Rep. Phil Sharp sided with the minority, favoring the liberalized proposal. The House's 216-166 vote and the Senate's concurrence on Monday ensures the status quo: federal funding only in instances where a woman’s life would be endangered by the pregnancy. Sharp's Republican opponent, Mike Pence has a different view. ‘It is my philosophical position to oppose abortion,’ he says. He is against any extension of government programs to finance abortions.” [Franklin Daily Journal, 9/24/88]
2011: Mike Pence Said “It Is Morally Wrong To End An Unborn Human Life By Abortion.” According to Palladium-Item, “‘It is morally wrong to end an unborn human life by abortion,’ Pence said in a news release. ‘It is also morally wrong to take the taxpayer dollars of millions of pro-life Americans and use them to promote abortion at home or abroad.’” [Palladium-Item, 1/13/11]
Pence Told Breitbart He Was “Thrilled” Supreme Court Overturned Roe v. Wade. According to Breitbart, “Former Vice President Mike Pence told Breitbart News exclusively on Friday he is thrilled the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade and shifted the battle for life and against abortion back to the states. ‘Today, Life Won. By overturning Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court of the United States has given the American people a new beginning for life, and I commend the justices in the majority for having the courage of their convictions,’ Pence said in response to the 5-4 decision from the U.S. Supreme Court in the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization case." [Breitbart, 6/24/22]
Pence Celebrated Overturning Of Roe And Said “Must Not Relent Until The Sanctity Of Life Is Restored To The Center Of American Law In Every State.” According to Breitbart, “‘By returning the question of abortion to the states and to the people, this Supreme Court has righted an historic wrong and reaffirmed the right of the American people to govern themselves at the state level in a manner consistent with their values and aspirations,’ Pence continued in the statement. ‘Now that Roe v. Wade has been consigned to the ash heap of history, a new arena in the cause of life has emerged, and it is incumbent on all who cherish the sanctity of life to resolve that we will take the defense of the unborn and the support for women in crisis pregnancy centers to every state in America. Having been given this second chance for Life, we must not rest and must not relent until the sanctity of life is restored to the center of American law in every state in the land.’” [Breitbart, 6/24/22]
Pence Group Advancing American Freedom Released Video On Pence’s History Of Anti-Abortion Activism From Time Before Congress Through Time As Vice President. According to Breitbart, “Pence also released a video through his organization Advancing American Freedom, which he also provided to Breitbart News exclusively ahead of its public release. In the slightly-over-three-minutes-long video, a narrator shows Pence’s history fighting for life beginning long before he was even elected to Congress. It then details how Pence offered the first-ever bill to defund Planned Parenthood in Congress—and then later as Vice President of the United States cast the tie-breaking vote to make sure a plan that gave that right to states passed Congress. He also, the video shows, helped shepherd through pro-life Justices Neil Gorsuch, Amy Coney Barrett, and Brett Kavanaugh, encouraging then-President Donald Trump to select them—and then helping their confirmations via the U.S. Senate.” [Breitbart, 6/24/22]
Pence Tweeted “Today, Life Won” In Response To Supreme Court Overturning Roe. According to a tweet from Mike Pence, “Today, Life Won. By overturning Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court of the United States has given the American people a new beginning for life and I commend the Justices in the majority for having the courage of their convictions.” [Twitter, @Mike_Pence, 6/24/22]
Pence Said “Supreme Court Has Righted A Historic Wrong” By Overturning Roe. According to a tweet from Mike Pence, “By returning the question of abortion to the states and the people, this Supreme Court has righted a historic wrong, and reaffirmed to right of the American people to govern themselves at the state level in a manner consistent with their values and aspirations.” [Twitter, @Mike_Pence, 6/24/22]
Pence Said Now That Roe Was Overturned It Was Incumbent On All To “Take Defense Of the Unborn” And “Support For Women In Crisis Pregnancies” To Every State. According to a tweet from Mike Pence, “Now that Roe v. Wade has been consigned to the ash heap of history, a new arena in the cause of life has emerged and it is incumbent on all who cherish the sanctity of life to resolve that we will take the defense of the unborn......and support for women in crisis pregnancies to every state Capitol in America. Having been given this second chance for Life, we must not rest and must not relent until the sanctity of life is restored to the center of American law in every state in the land.” [Twitter, @Mike_Pence, 6/24/22]
Pence Said Abortion Should Be Banned Nationwide After Dobbs Decision, Advisors Said Firm Position On Abortion Could Help With 2024 Run. According to the Washington Post, “In the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision overturning Roe v. Wade, former vice president Mike Pence says abortion should be banned nationwide and is planning behind the scenes to focus on the issue in the coming weeks, according to advisers. Former president Donald Trump, in contrast, fears the ruling could hurt the GOP’s election chances, his advisers said, even as he hailed the ruling as ‘victory for life’ at a Saturday rally. Pence has gone in the other direction — writing on Twitter last week that ‘we must not rest and must not relent until the sanctity of life is restored to the center of American law in every state in the land.’ Advisers to Pence said his firm position on abortion could help in conservative states such as South Carolina, and one said his team has been surprised that more candidates have not taken his stance.” [Washington Post, 6/27/22]
2007: Pence Called Roe v. Wade “The Worst Supreme Court Decision Since Dred Scott.” According to Pence’s comments at a National March for Life rally, “‘It is the 22nd of January again. On this cold anniversary of the worst Supreme Court decision since Dred Scott, all across this land, because of the prayers and compassion of every one of you, springtime is breaking forth in the battle between choice and life.’” [Press Release – Office of Rep. Pence, 1/22/07]
Pence Said That He Would Keep Marching Until “Roe v. Wade Is Sent To The Ash Heap Of History Where It Belongs.” According to the Weekly Standard, “Indiana congressman Mike Pence of Indiana--who's deciding this week between running for president and governor--delivered a strong, succinct (372 words by my count) speech at the March for Life in Washington, D.C. today. Pence pushed back against the proposal--advanced by fellow Hoosier Gov. Mitch Daniels--that the issue of abortion should somehow be set aside while the economy is struggling. Said Pence: […] ‘We gather to mark the 38th anniversary of the worst Supreme Court decision since Dred Scott. And we gather today in the shadow of a new pro-life majority on Capitol Hill. And we will keep gathering until Roe v. Wade is sent to the ash heap of history where it belongs.” [Weekly Standard, 1/24/11]
Pence Repeated Hope Roe V. Wade Decision Would Be Sent To “Ash Heap Of History” Ahead Of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization Oral Arguments. According to The Hill, “Former Vice President Mike Pence delivered remarks ahead of oral arguments in a Supreme Court case that could overturn Roe v. Wade, urging justices to send the ruling legalizing abortion in the United States to the ‘ash heap of history.’ ‘Today, as the Supreme Court prepares to hear oral arguments in those hallowed halls, we are here to declare with one voice ‘no more,’’ Pence said to applause. The former vice president expressed optimism that momentum was turning in favor of the anti-abortion movement, particularly among younger Americans. ‘Life is winning in America, but now we need life to win in the highest court in the land,’ Pence said. Pence made the remarks at the National Press Club in Washington with prominent anti-abortion group the Susan B. Anthony List.” [The Hill, 11/30/21]
Pence In 2000: “Roe V. Wade Was Legally Poorly Conceived And Morally Wrong And Should Be Overturned.” According to Mike Pence For Congress, “A fundamental axiom of Western Civilization is the belief in the sanctity of human life. The 107th Congress must be about the business of reasserting this crucial principle of our society. The unborn child has a fundamental right to life which cannot be infringed. Roe vs.. Wade was legally poorly conceived and morally wrong and should be overturned.” [Mike Pence For Congress via Wayback Machine, 2000]
Pence Called To End Roe At March For Life Summit; “Roe Must Go.” According to Fox News, “If the court overturns the long-standing abortion precedent in Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey – two landmark cases that prevent state governments from banning abortions at certain points during pregnancy – then abortion decisions would be left to the states. Several red states, for example, have already passed "trigger laws" designed to immediately restrict abortion once the Supreme Court overturns Roe. Meanwhile, blue and purple states would likely face renewed political pressure on keeping less restrictive laws. With all this at stake, energized anti-abortion activists flocked to Washington this week for the annual March for Life on Friday and the summit on Saturday. Pence reiterated the rallying cry, saying ‘Roe must go!’” [Fox News, 1/23/22]
Pence Said Activists Must Prepare For Action In A “Post-Roe America.” According to Fox News, “Former Vice President Mike Pence Saturday expressed confidence the Supreme Court will overturn Roe. v. Wade — thanks to the newest conservative justices — and urged anti-abortion activists to prepare for action once the decision comes down. Pence predicted the Supreme Court will act to dismantle the landmark abortion case, adding the ‘next battlefield for life will emerge’ in the state legislatures. ‘Your generation must lead and fight for life in every state across this land,’ Pence said Saturday at the National Pro-life Summit in Washington, D.C., where many students and grassroots activists had gathered. ‘With a real prospect of a post-Roe America before us, I urge you to prepare your minds for action,’ Pence added. Pence made his comments on the 49th anniversary of the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion. Buoyed by the addition of three new conservatives on the court – justices Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett – and a major abortion case before the justices, anti-abortion activists are hopeful the Roe court decision will not live to see its 50th anniversary.” [Fox News, 1/23/22]
Pence’s PAC Called For 49th Anniversary Of Roe V. Wade To Be Its Last. According to Newsweek, “Former Vice President Mike Pence's political advocacy group issued a statement on Saturday about the 49th anniversary of 1973's Roe v. Wade saying it ‘hopefully will be the last.’ Advancing American Freedom (AAF) marked the anniversary of the landmark Supreme Court decision on abortion rights by pledging to work end abortions in the U.S. The Supreme Court is currently weighing abortion cases that could be pivotal. Pence has seized on the issue of abortion as speculation has swirled about his potential presidential ambitions for 2024 and the possibility he could challenge former President Donald Trump for the Republican nomination. [Newsweek, 1/22/22]
Pence’s Organization, Advancing American Freedom, Filed Amicus Brief Asking Supreme Court To Overturn Roe v. Wade And Planned Parenthood v. Casey. According to The Hill, “In July, the former vice president announced that his organization, Advancing American Freedom, filed an amicus brief asking the high court to overturn Roe v. Wade, The group also requested that Planned Parenthood v. Casey, which upheld the constitutional right to the procedure, be overturned.” [The Hill, 11/30/21]
Pence Tweeted Old Speech Video Footage In Response To Leaked Draft Of Roe Decision. According to a tweet from Mike Pence, “As long as Roe v. Wade remains enforced, the Radical Left in this Country will never stop pushing for more and more extreme abortion related policies.” [Twitter, @Mike_Pence, 5/3/22]
Pence Said Roe v. Wade Is Part Of Larger Fight Against Radical Left. According to The Center Square, “Indiana Republicans and Democrats reacted to the possibility of Roe v. Wade being struck down this summer by emphasizing views held by their opponents. Former Vice President Mike Pence also sees Roe v. Wade as part of a fight against extremism. He said, ‘As long as Roe v. Wade remains enforced, the Radical Left in this country will never stop pushing for more and more extreme abortion related policies.’” [The Center Square, 5/3/22]
Pence Speculated Leak Was Intended To Change Majority Opinion. According to Fox News, “Pence continued to project confidence in the eventual overturn of Roe, saying during the interview he has great confidence that the three Trump-Pence appointed Supreme Court justices will stand behind the majority decision as outlined in the draft brief. ‘Whoever this individual was, if their intention was to change the outcome of this case, they will fail. Because I do believe that the conservative majority on the court, including three of whom were appointed in the Trump-Pence administration, will do their job. But I also believe that whatever the outcome of this case, we will never rest, we will never relent until the Supreme Court of the United States overturns Roe v. Wade and gives our country a new beginning for life.’” [Fox News, 5/7/22]
Pence Held Up Bankruptcy Reform Legislation Over Concerns About Impact On Anti-Abortion Advocates. According to the Indianapolis Star, “U.S. Rep. Mike Pence, R-Ind., figures his strong anti-abortion views have cost him between $10,000 and $20,000 in campaign contributions. That's what he expected to collect from lobbyists for financial services companies who decided not to attend a recent fund-raiser because of Pence's role in helping block bankruptcy-reform legislation. Pence is among conservative lawmakers who will not support the bill as long as it includes a provision to stop anti-abortion activists from declaring bankruptcy to escape costly legal judgments. The bill is a top priority of the financial services industry, which argues it is too easy for consumers to dump their debt through bankruptcy. But some lawmakers, including Pence, said the bill's potential impact on peaceful abortion protesters is too serious to let slide.” [Indianapolis Star, 9/29/02]
2003: Pence Praised Anti-Abortion Advocates For Reaching A Point Where Abortion Is In “Steep Decline” And “Less Morally Acceptable Than At Any Time Since 1973.” According to the Washington Times, “Indiana Republican Rep. Mike Pence said, ‘Abortion is in steep decline in America today’ because of the efforts of pro-life activists. ‘Abortion is less available, less legal, and most importantly less morally acceptable than at any time since 1973,’ he said.” [Washington Times, 1/23/03]
Pence Called On Congress To Suspend Approval Of RU-486 Abortion Pill After Death Of Teenager. According to a press release from then-Rep. Mike Pence, “Congressman Mike Pence today called on Congress to immediately pass legislation he is cosponsoring that suspends FDA approval of the ‘abortion pill’ known as RU-486. Holly Patterson, a California teenager, died last month after taking the drug. ‘I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of this young American caused by a medication that should not be available to the American public,’ said Pence. ‘As evidenced by this tragedy, RU-486 is a dangerous drug that should never be administered, let alone under the weak oversight of current FDA regulations.’” [Congressman Mike Pence Press Release, 11/4/03]
September 2005: Pence Urged Congress To Pass Parental Notification Requirements For Abortions. According to a Mike Pence press release obtained via Congressional Press Releases, “To that end, there are other priorities once we work past this crisis: […] - Pass additional legislative limitations on abortion, including parental notification and strengthening informed consent” [Congressional Press Releases, 9/26/05]
2007: Pence Applauded Decision In Gonzales v. Carhart That Upheld Partial Birth Ban. According to a press release from Congressman Mike Pence, “‘Thanks to this landmark decision by the United States Supreme Court, we can say life is winning in America. The Supreme Court's decision represents an awakening of the conscience of a nation. ‘This is the first true judicial victory for the unborn since Roe v. Wade. And despite the best efforts of the abortion rights movement, 34 years since Roe v. Wade more Americans embrace the sanctity of life than ever before.’ ‘Soon the laws of this land will answer the call of every unborn heart and say with our Founders: 'We choose liberty, the pursuit of happiness and the unalienable right to life.’’” [Congressman Mike Pence Press Release, 4/18/07]
Pence Opposed AIDS Funding Program Over Concerns Money Would Go To Abortion Programs. According to the Associated Press, “The leader of the minority Republicans in the House of Representatives joined other members of his party in warning that a successful program to combat AIDS in Africa would be in jeopardy if Democrats move ahead with plans to make changes that he said would support abortions. […] Third, Republicans claimed that the Democratic-written bill undoes carefully crafted rules that allow money to go to family planning groups for AIDS work as long as no money is spent on abortions. That change, Republican Rep. Mike Pence, said at a news conference that included anti-abortion groups, ‘would transform the program into a megafunding pool for organizations with an abortion promotion agenda.’” [Associated Press, 2/8/08]
Pence Gave Speech On 2008 Beijing Olympics And Opposed One Child Policy And Connections To Abortion, Said Government For Strictly Controlling Reproductive Lives. According to a press release from Congressman Mike Pence, “Congressman Mike Pence gave the following speech on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives today, speaking out against Beijing, China as the site for the 2008 Olympic Games and citing China's official policy of forced abortion as going against the very ideals of the Games […] the real cloud over the Beijing Olympics is the horror of forced abortion. Therefore I am especially grateful to Congressman Chris Smith for adding an important amendment to this resolution noting that: 'Whereas the Chinese government limits most women to having one child and strictly controls the reproductive lives of Chinese citizens by systematic means that include mandatory monitoring of women's reproductive cycles, mandatory sterilization and contraception, mandatory birth permits, coercive fines for failure to comply,' and the like. This legislation will call on the People's Republic of China to immediately end the practice of forced abortion.” [Congressman Mike Pence Press Release, 7/30/08]
2012: Pence Co-Sponsored Legislation To Require Ultrasounds For Women Seeking Abortions Before 12 Weeks. According to The Indianapolis Star, “He cited Pence’s record in Congress, including co-sponsoring a bill that would have redefined rape so that Medicaid would cover abortions only if the rape was ‘forcible,’ something Gregg argued was redundant; leading a fight in Congress to defund Planned Parenthood; and co-sponsoring an effort that would require an ultrasound for women seeking an abortion before 12 weeks of gestation.” [Indianapolis Star, 6/5/12]
2010, 2011: Pence Twice Co-Sponsored Legislation That Included Provisions To Redefine The Definition Of Rape To “Forcible Rape.” According to The Associated Press State & Local Wire, “Democratic Senate candidate Joe Donnelly and Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike Pence twice sponsored legislation that would separate out ‘forcible rape’ when it comes to federal funding of abortions. Donnelly and Pence signed onto a 2011 bill co-sponsored by Akin, Republican vice presidential pick Paul Ryan, and almost every other House Republican, that would have redefined rape for the purposes of seeking an abortion. The Donnelly and PENCE campaigns called the defining of rape in the bill something the congressmen had overlooked and said it was quickly Pence from the measure once it was found. Later in the week, it was discovered they had both signed onto a 2010 bill with the same language. ‘If they think they should be making laws that deal with that issue, they ought to pay attention,’ said Betty Cockrum, president of Planned Parenthood of Indiana. ‘And if they’re that clueless and about the use of a term like ‘forcible’ when it comes to the issue of rape, they shouldn’t get anywhere near it.’ Neither campaign could or would explain why the candidates approved the language in the 2010 bill, but not the 2011 bill.” [Associated Press State & Local Wire, 8/26/12]
Pence Co-Sponsored Legislation That Changed The Definition Of Rape In Order To Stop Medicaid Coverage Of Abortions For Rape Unless The Rape Was “Forcible.” According to The Indianapolis Star, “He cited Pence’s record in Congress, including co-sponsoring a bill that would have redefined rape so that Medicaid would cover abortions only if the rape was ‘forcible,’ something Gregg argued was redundant; leading a fight in Congress to defund Planned Parenthood; and co-sponsoring an effort that would require an ultrasound for women seeking an abortion before 12 weeks of gestation.” [Indianapolis Star, 6/5/12]
2009: Pence Introduced Title X Abortion Provider Prohibition Act To Prohibit Family Planning Grants From Going To Organizations That Perform Abortions. According to U.S. Fed News, “Rep. Mike Pence, R-Indiana, has introduced the Title X Abortion Provider Prohibition Act (H.R. 614), legislation that would ‘amend title X of the Public Health Service Act to prohibit family planning grants from being awarded to any entity that performs abortions.’” [U.S. Fed News, 2/5/09]
2011: Pence Introduced The Title X Abortion Provider Prohibition Act. According to a Mike Pence press release obtained via The Office Of Rep. Mike Pence, “U.S. Congressman Mike Pence issued the following statement today after introducing the Title X Abortion Provider Prohibition Act. The bill currently has 122 cosponsors.” [Office Of Rep. Mike Pence, 1/6/11]
House Approved Proposal To Block Federal Aid For Planned Parenthood. According to the Associated Press, “The House has approved a Republican proposal to block federal aid for Planned Parenthood. The 240-185 vote on Friday is a victory for anti-abortion forces led by Indiana GOP Rep. Mike Pence. He says taxpayer money should not go to groups that provide or promote abortion. Democrats say Planned Parenthood provides contraception and other valuable family planning services, and that cutting off the money will make it hard for women to get such basic help. Planned Parenthood provides services in hundreds of clinics around the country. Pence aides say the group reported receiving $363 million in federal money in its latest report. [Associated Press, 2/18/11]
Los Angeles Times: “Pence Has Made Himself The Leader Of A Coordinated Effort To Defund Planned Parenthood.” According to the Los Angeles Times, “The House continues making its way through hundreds of amendments to a spending bill to fund the government through Sept. 30. The bill makes more than $60 billion in cuts for the remaining seven months of the fiscal year, but is unlikely to be supported by the Democratic-controlled Senate. Failure to pass a bill when the current spending plan expires on March 4 could lead to a federal government shutdown. Pence has made himself the leader of a coordinated effort to defund Planned Parenthood, which is the nation's largest provider of abortions and a longtime target of abortion foes.” [Los Angeles Times, 2/18/11]
POLITICO: Pence Is “On A One-Man Crusade To Deny All Federal Funding To The Group — Not Just The Money It Gets For Reproductive Health And Family Planning Services, But Every Penny It Gets For Anything.” According to POLITICO, “Abortion-rights advocates and abortion-rights opponents don’t see eye to eye on much, but they do agree on this: Nobody hates Planned Parenthood quite as much as Mike Pence. The Indiana Republican is on a one-man crusade to deny all federal funding to the group — not just the money it gets for reproductive health and family planning services, but every penny it gets for anything.” [POLITICO, 2/16/11]
Star Press Editorial: “It's Too Dramatic To Say Rep. Mike Pence Is Waging War Against Planned Parenthood. Let's Just Say It's A Crusade, And He’s Won The Latest Round.” According to an editorial by the Star Press, “It's too dramatic to say Rep. Mike Pence is waging war against Planned Parenthood. Let's just say it's a crusade, and he's won the latest round.” [Editorial – Star Press, 2/22/11]
Pence Voted To Prohibit Federal Funding For Abortion, Except In Cases Of Rape, Incest, Or Life Of The Mother. In May 2011, Pence voted for a bill, which, according to Congressional Quarterly, would have “prohibit[ed] federal funding for abortion services, except in cases of rape, incest or when the woman’s life is endangered. It would [have] modif[ied] tax breaks given for health insurance coverage to exclude coverage for abortion, prohibit[ed] federal medical facilities from providing abortion services.” The House passed the bill with a vote of 251 to 175. The Senate took no subsequent action. [House Vote 292, 5/4/11; Congressional Actions, H.R. 3; Congressional Quarterly, 5/4/11; House Vote 885, 11/7/09; Congressional Actions, 11/7/09; Congressional Quarterly, 11/7/09; Congressional Quarterly, 11/7/09]
2000: Pence Opposing Granting Federal Funds To “Domestic Or International Organizations Which Promote Abortion As A Method Of Birth Control.” According to Mike Pence For Congress, “In support of this cause, the 107th Congress should: […] oppose the granting of federal funds to domestic or international organizations which promote abortion as a method of birth control.” [Mike Pence For Congress via Wayback Machine, 2000]
2010: Pence: “The Time Has Come To Deny Any And All Federal Funding To Planned Parenthood Of America.” While appearing on Federal News Service, Pence said, “The time has come to deny any and all federal funding to Planned Parenthood of America.” [Federal News Service, 2/19/10]
2015: Pence Called For Defunding The Planned Parenthood. According to Fort Wayne Journal Gazette, “When a national controversy erupted recently over Planned Parenthood, Republican Gov. Mike Pence jumped right in the middle. […] Pence has long called for defunding the group.” [Fort Wayne Journal Gazette, 8/11/15]
[Video] 2011: During 2011 Federal Budget Negotiations, Pence Indicated He Would “Hold Up This Entire Budget” And Implement A Government Shutdown Over Planned Parenthood Funding. While appearing on MSNBC, Mike Pence said, “WILLIE GEIST (CO-HOST): Are you willing to hold up this entire budget over defunding Planned Parenthood? PENCE: Well— well of course I am. I think the American people have begun to learn that the largest abortion provider in the country is also the largest recipient of federal funding under Title X, and they want to see that come to an end. I think there’s a broad consensus in this country, regardless of where you stand on the subject of abortion, there’s a broad consensus for decades now opposing public funding of abortion and abortion providers. ... We’re going to dig in and we’re going to fight for the principle that taxpayers should not have to subsidize the largest abortion provider in the country, namely Planned Parenthood of America.” [Media Matters, 4/5/11]
April 2011: Pence Was Asked If He Was “Willing To Hold Up This Entire Budget Over Defunding Planned Parenthood?” And Responded “Of Course I Am.” According to Howey Politics Indiana, “When Congress narrowly averted a government shutdown in the spring of 2011, then U.S. Rep. Mike Pence - before he was Indiana Governor - vocally championed a hard line of pushing specific cuts at the acknowledged risk of a government shutdown. […] Asked by MSNBC on April 5th of that year, ‘Are you willing to hold up this entire budget over defunding Planned Parenthood?’ Pence answered, ‘Well, well of course I am.’” [Howey Politics Indiana, 10/1/13]
Pence Signed Bill To Put Stricter Regulations On Clinics Administering Abortion Medications. According to NUVO, “Republican Gov. Mike Pence signed a bill into law Wednesday that will put stricter regulations on clinics administering abortion-inducing drugs including RU-486. Planned Parenthood of Indiana has said the legislation will likely force it to end abortion services at a clinic in Lafayette. That's the only clinic in Indiana where so-called ‘medical abortions’ are the only ones performed. ‘I believe in the right to life and in protecting the health and well-being of women in Indiana,’ Pence said in a statement. ‘Abortion-inducing drugs can be very dangerous, and must be prescribed under conditions that ensure proper medical care. This new law helps accomplish that goal.’” [NUVO, 5/1/13]
Pence Was “Pleased” With Legislation Requiring A Clinic That Prescribes An Abortion-Inducing Drug To Meet The Same Building Requirements As For Surgery. According to the Indianapolis Star, “Abortion legislation: Pence was asked if he was disappointed Indiana didn’t go as far as North Dakota in blocking abortions after six weeks. Legislation here would require a clinic that prescribes an abortion-inducing drug to meet the same building requirements as for surgery, including wider hallways, sterilization equipment and a recovery room. ‘Let me say I’m pleased with this legislation,’ Pence said, saying he expects to sign it. ‘I’m pro-life, and I believe in the sanctity of life. But I also believe the state of Indiana has an interest in seeing to the proper administration of health care to women in this state,’ Pence said, arguing that the bill ‘advances proper medical care for women.’” [Indianapolis Star, 4/7/13]
Regulation On Abortion Clinics As Surgical Facilities Ruled Unconstitutional In Violation Of Equal Protection. According to the Associated Press, “A federal judge has ruled against an Indiana law that changed the classification of abortion clinics in a way that opponents said targeted a Planned Parenthood facility that only provides drug-induced abortions. The law violated equal protection rights by treating the Lafayette clinic differently than physician offices that provide the same medications, U.S. District Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson said in a ruling released Wednesday. Planned Parenthood would have had to take steps, such as adding a recovery room and scrub facilities, so that the Lafayette clinic met the same standards as surgical abortion clinics in order to continue offering the abortion pill under the GOP-backed law signed by Gov. Mike Pence in 2013.” [Associated Press, 12/4/14]
Pence Supported A Federal Ban On Abortions After 20 Weeks Of Pregnancy. According to the Associated Press State & Local, “Gov. Mike Pence and a group of other possible Republican presidential contenders have thrown their support behind a federal ban on abortions after 20 weeks of pregnancy. Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, and other possible Republican contenders wrote to U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-South Carolina, in support of his proposed ban, which is based on the disputed premise that a fetus can feel pain at that stage. ‘It is for these reason that I wholeheartedly support (the legislation) and join you in urging Senate leadership to allow a vote on this important piece of pro-life legislation,’ Pence wrote in the April 3, 2014 letter.” [Associated Press State & Local, 9/17/14]
Pence Touted Legislation He Signed That Banned Insurance Coverage For Most Abortion Procedures. According to the Indianapolis Star, “Pence also touted his policies on abortion, bringing up the legislation he signed in 2013 that banned insurance coverage for most abortion procedures. ‘Life is winning in Indiana, because of the efforts of all of you,’ Pence said. ‘Life is winning in this state - I truly believe - because compassion is overcoming convenience. Life is defeating despair.’” [Indianapolis Star, 9/19/14]
Pence Awarded Most Of 43.5 Million No-Bid Contract To Anti-Abortion Nonprofit Organizations That Pushed Abstinence-Only. According to the Associated Press, “Most of a $3.5 million no-bid contract that Republican Gov. Mike Pence awarded to an anti-abortion nonprofit organization that pushes abstinence as the only method of birth control will be spent providing services to pregnant women who choose not to have an abortion. Pennsylvania-based Real Alternatives will essentially act as a middleman, signing up service providers around the state to ‘enable pregnant women in Indiana to maintain pregnancy and achieve positive healthy pregnancy outcomes through provision of pregnancy support services and referrals to care.’ The contract, first announced Oct. 12 by Pence, wasn't made public until this month. It follows a one-year pilot program in northern Indiana that was backed by the governor, who has long opposed funding for Planned Parenthood, a group that provides women's health services, including abortions.” [Associated Press, 11/14/15]
March 2016: Pence Signed Law Prohibiting Women From Having An Abortion Based On The Sex, Race, Or Diagnosed Disability Of The Fetus. According to Evansville Courier & Press, “‘This statute does something the (U.S.) Supreme Court has said repeatedly cannot be done,’ Falk said. ‘It is an attempt by the state of Indiana to interfere with and actually prohibit a woman’s right to determine whether or not to have an abortion.’ […] The new law, signed by Indiana Gov. Mike Pence two weeks ago, takes away that right, Falk said. HB 1337, authored by Rep. Casey Cox, R-Fort Wayne, prohibits women from having an abortion based on the sex or race of the fetus -- or a diagnosed disability, such as Down syndrome.” [Evansville Courier & Press, 4/8/16]
ACLU Sued Indiana Over Abortion Law Signed By Pence. According to CBS News, “The American Civil Liberties Union and Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentucky sued the state of Indiana on Thursday over its recently signed abortion law that bans the procedure if sought because of genetic abnormalities, calling the law unconstitutional. The federal lawsuit, which also challenges a provision that mandates an aborted fetus be buried or cremated, seeks an injunction to keep the law taking effect on July 1.[…] Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentucky president and CEO Betty Cockrum said the law, which was passed by the GOP-led Legislature and signed by Gov. Mike Pence last month, shows the state doesn’t respect women. The law makes Indiana one of the most restrictive states in the U.S. for abortions, joining only North Dakota in banning abortions sought because of genetic fetal abnormalities.” [CBS News, 4/7/16]
In 2003 House Speech, Pence Cited Ancient Greek Physician’s Belief That Abortion Was Only Permissible When Mother’s Life Was In Danger. According to Buzzfeed, “A 2003 speech Pence gave on the House floor offers insight into his conviction on the issue. In arguing that ‘for roughly 3,000 years in Western civilization… abortion was immoral and unethical’ prior to the Supreme Court’s Roe v. Wade decision, Pence approvingly cited the ancient Greek physician Soranos’ belief that it was only permissible when the mother’s life was in danger. ‘In fact, the Ephesian, Soranos, often described as the greatest ancient gynecologist from whom we obtain the word and the practice of gynecology was, as history records, deeply opposed to Rome´s prevailing free abortion practice,’ Pence said. ‘Soranos found it necessary to think first of the life of the mother and resorted to an abortion when he thought the life of the mother was in danger, but it was otherwise unacceptable.’ He continued, ‘At the time of Soranos, Greek and Roman law afforded little protection to the unborn until Christianity took root in the Roman Empire, and then it changed. And from that point forward, after the spread of Christianity in the Roman Empire, infanticide and abortion were treated as equally criminal acts, alongside murder.’” [Buzzfeed News, 9/13/16]
In 2005, Pence Backed A Constitutional Amendment To Ban Abortion, Including In The Cases Of Rape And Incest. According to The Washington Post, “Pence also backs a constitutional amendment to ban abortion, saying he is against the procedure in all cases --including rape and incest -- except when the life of the mother is at stake.” [Washington Post, 3/22/05]
In 2010, Pence Responded To Indiana Right To Life Endorsement Questionnaire Saying Abortion Should Never Be Legal. According to Buzzfeed, “But as a congressman in 2010, filling out a questionnaire from the group Indiana Right to Life, Pence answered the question, ‘Under what circumstances do you believe abortion should be legal?’ by selecting option ‘A’, which was ‘Abortion should never be legal.’” [Buzzfeed News, 9/13/16]
In 2012, Pence Responded To Indiana Right To Life Endorsement Questionnaire Saying Abortion Should Be Allowed If Life Of The Mother Was At Risk. According to Buzzfeed, “As a congressman in 2010, filling out a questionnaire from the group Indiana Right to Life, Pence answered the question, ‘Under what circumstances do you believe abortion should be legal?’ by selecting option ‘A’, which was ‘Abortion should never be legal.’ Two years later, as a gubernatorial candidate in 2012, Pence responded to the same question by selecting option ‘B’ (‘Life of the mother only’) and not option ‘C’ (‘Rape and/or incest’).” [Buzzfeed News, 9/13/16]
By 2014, Pence’s Position Had Changed, And He Claimed To Oppose Abortion Except In Cases Of Rape, Incest, Or If The Life Of The Mother Was At Risk. According to Project Vote Smart’s 2008 Political Courage Test, Pence indicated that he was supportive of allowing abortions in cases of rape and incest. [Project Vote Smart – Mike Pence, Viewed 9/25/14]
2014: Pence Signed Bill That Prohibited Private Insurance Coverage Of Abortions With Exceptions For Rape, Incest, and Life Of Mother. According to Rewire News Group, “Republican Gov. Mike Pence signed a ban on private insurance coverage of most abortion care in the state last week. HB 1123 makes Indiana the tenth state to ban private insurance coverage of abortion. It allows the purchase of a separate ‘rider’ at additional cost to cover abortion care, although as seen recently in Michigan, there is no guarantee that such riders will be available to all who may wish to purchase them. The new law includes exceptions for rape, incest, and threats to the life or ‘major bodily function’ of the pregnant woman, but does not include an exception for fetal anomalies or mental health issues.” [Rewire News Group, 4/4/14]
December 26, 2019: Trump Has Appointed 133 District Court Judges, 50 Appeals Court, And Two Supreme Court Justices. According to Slate, “With the help of Senate Republicans, Donald Trump spent the first three years of his presidency remaking the federal judiciary in his own image. The president has appointed 133 district court judges, 50 appeals court judges, and two Supreme Court justices—meaning about one-fifth of the nation’s federal trial judges, and one-fourth of its federal appellate judges, are Trump appointees.” [Slate, 12/26/19]
Trump’s Judicial Nominees Were Overwhelmingly White And Male. According to the Christian Science Monitor, “Mr. Trump’s chosen judges are also overwhelmingly white and male. About 1 in 4 of his appointments have been women, and just over 1 in 10 have been people of color.” [Christian Science Monitor, 12/19/19]
April 7, 2017: Trump Supreme Court Nominee Neil Gorsuch Was Confirmed, Reestablishing The Court’s 5-4 Conservative-Liberal Split. According to Time, “Newly-minted Justice Gorsuch brings the highest court in the land back to the 5-4 conservative-liberal split it had before Scalia passed away in February 2016. In many ways, he’s a natural heir to Scalia: Gorsuch’s core judicial philosophy and writing style are strikingly similar to the man he’s replacing. Both are originalists, who interpret the Constitution based on the intent of the founders, and textualists, who look at the words of the document rather than legislative history. And both are known for their colorful language and incisive opinions.” [Time, 4/7/17]
Gorsuch Was Expected To Follow His Predecessor Eugene Scalia’s Lead In Opposing Abortion On Supreme Court. According to the Guardian, “The nominee Trump announced on Tuesday night, federal appeals judge Neil Gorsuch, a record with little direct bearing on this topic. Nevertheless, organizations across the political spectrum readily agreed that Gorsuch represented an abortion foe in the mold of the justice he is slated to replace, the late Antonin Scalia […] Gorsuch’s judicial rulings offer scant evidence of how he might rule on abortion rights. Still, there are myriad hints. Abortion opponents note his doctoral dissertation on assisted suicide, in which he thunders against ‘the intentional taking of human life.’ Supporters of reproductive rights note that Gorsuch sided with an effort to defund Planned Parenthood and with companies opposed to providing their employees with contraceptive coverage in their healthcare plans.” [The Guardian, 2/1/17]
With The 2018 Confirmation Of Brett Kavanuagh To the Supreme Court, Trump Cemented His 5-4 Conservative Majority On The Bench After Kennedy’s Departure. According to Axios, “With the confirmation of Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court in 2018, President Trump cemented a solid conservative majority on the bench. Kavanaugh has the second-most conservative score (0.693) next to Justice Clarence Thomas (0.725), per a measure that score judges on a liberal-conservative spectrum. An analysis by political scientists Lee Epstein, Andrew D. Martin, and Kevin Quinn places judges on an ideological spectrum called the ‘Judicial Common Space.’ Conservative justices receive scores from 0 to 1, liberal justices from –1 to 0. Most liberal: Sonia Sotomayor (-0.521) Ruth Bader Ginsburg (-0.518) Elena Kagan (-0.302) Stephen Breyer (-0.280) John Roberts (0.089) Samuel Alito (0.317) Neil Gorsuch (0.486) Brett Kavanaugh (0.693) Clarence Thomas (0.725)” [Axios, 6/1/19]
During His Confirmation Hearing, Kavanaugh Refused To Say He Would Not Vote To Reverse Roe V. Wade And Defended A Dissenting Opinion He Wrote When The DC Circuit Court Allowed A 17-Year-Old To Terminate Her Pregnancy. According to CNN, “During his first round of testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee, Kavanaugh said he views Roe v. Wade, the landmark ruling that legalized abortion nationwide, as ‘important precedent of the Supreme Court’ that has been ‘reaffirmed many times.’ Yet he declined to say he would not vote to reverse Roe, saying that such a vow -- on any case -- would violate judicial norms. He also defended a dissenting opinion he wrote last year when the full DC Circuit allowed a 17-year-old to end her pregnancy over objections from the Trump administration. In his dissent, Kavanaugh wrote the Supreme Court has held that ‘the government has permissible interests in favoring fetal life, protecting the best interests of a minor, and refraining from facilitating abortion’ […] He said the majority opinion was ‘based on a constitutional principle as novel as it is wrong: a new right for unlawful immigrant minors in US government detention to obtain immediate abortion on demand.’” [CNN, 10/6/18]
March 2020: The Supreme Court Heard It’s First Abortion Case Since Two Conservative Trump Appointees Joined. According to Reuters, “The U.S. Supreme Court this week gets its first chance to consider new curbs on abortion rights with President Donald Trump’s two conservative appointees on the bench as it examines the legality of a Louisiana law that could force two of the state’s three clinics that perform the procedure to shut down. The court, with a 5-4 conservative majority, is scheduled on Wednesday to hear arguments in an appeal by Shreveport-based abortion provider Hope Medical Group for Women seeking to invalidate the law. Chief Justice John Roberts may be pivotal in deciding the outcome, with Trump’s appointees Brett Kavanaugh and Neil Gorsuch also in the spotlight. The clinic sued to block the 2014 law, which requires that doctors who perform abortions have a difficult-to-obtain arrangement called ‘admitting privileges’ at a hospital within 30 miles (48 km) of the abortion clinic. A federal appeals court ruled against the clinic and upheld the law.” [Reuters, 3/1/20]
In 2016, The Supreme Court Struck Down An Identical Provision To The One Being Heard Currently. According to the New York Times, “In 2016, Kennedy and the court’s four liberals struck down an identical Texas provision, based on a scientific consensus that the requirement isn’t medically necessary and ultimately harms women by preventing them from accessing a safe procedure. The only thing that has changed in the four years since the Texas decision is the court’s composition. The new case could be a means for the conservatives to begin dismantling the constitutional protections for abortion that the court has built, brick by contested brick, over decades of decisions that began with Roe v. Wade.” [New York Times, 2/27/20]
President Trump Nominated Extremely Conservative Judges With Views Hostile To Reproductive Rights. According to Planned Parenthood Action, “One of the most important powers of the president is nominating federal judges. And President Trump is doing this at record speed, moving quickly to fill the 150 judicial vacancies he inherited upon taking office. Most of his nominees are extremely conservative, and many hold views that are hostile to reproductive health and rights. In vote after vote, senators are confirming Trump's nominees to lifetime positions as federal judges — where they'll be able to make rulings that will affect our rights and access to health care for generations to come.” [Planned Parenthood Action, accessed 3/23/20]
The Senate Confirmed Conservatives Lawrence VanDyke And Patrick Bumatay To The 9th U.S. Circuit Court Of Appeals. According to Politico, “A bastion of liberalism in the federal judiciary is slowly turning rightward, threatening Democratic court challenges on everything from abortion to who gets a green card. The Senate confirmation of Lawrence VanDyke and Patrick Bumatay to the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals this month brought to nine the number of appointments President Donald Trump has made to the 29-member bench that serves as the last stop for nearly all legal complaints lodged in nine Western states. Democratic-appointed judges now hold a three-seat majority, compared with 11 at the start of Trump's presidency.” [Politico, 12/19/19]
As Montana’s Solicitor General, VanDyke Supported An Unconstitutional Abortion Ban And Sought To Place Substantial Obstacles In The Way Of Access To Abortion. According to NARAL, “As Montana solicitor general, VanDyke co-wrote an amicus brief in support of Arizona’s unconstitutional abortion ban. The brief argued that Roe v. Wade and subsequent cases affirming the constitutional right to abortion should be ‘revisited.’ Despite the fact that the law banned abortion after 20-weeks, the brief argued that the law ‘has neither the purpose nor the effect of imposing a substantial obstacle on the abortion right established by [the U.S. Supreme Court’s] cases, and so cannot be considered an ‘undue burden.’’ As Montana solicitor general, VanDyke defended a law that sought to place substantial obstacles in the way of young women’s access to abortion. In the briefs, VanDyke was dismissive of a federal district court’s finding that young people who do not involve their parents in their decision to have an abortion ‘often have a legitimate reason for not doing so.’ VanDyke’s arguments also relied on misleading and discredited studies about the psychological risks of abortion.” [NARAL, accessed 3/23/20]
The 9th Circuit Court Of Appeals Ruled In Favor Of Trump Administration Title X Gag Rule. According to ABC News, “In a victory for the Trump administration, a U.S. appeals court on Monday upheld rules that bar taxpayer-funded family-planning clinics from referring women for abortions. The 7-4 ruling by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals overturned decisions issued by judges in Washington, Oregon and California. The court had already allowed the administration's changes to start taking effect while the government appealed those rulings. The changes ban taxpayer-funded clinics in the Title X program for low-income women from making abortion referrals, a restriction opponents characterize as a ‘gag rule.’ Beginning March 4, the rules will also prohibit clinics that receive federal money from sharing office space with abortion providers, which critics said would force many Title X providers to find new locations, undergo expensive remodels or shut down — further reducing access to the program.” [ABC News, 2/24/20]
Two Trump Appointed Judges Joined The Opinion In Favor Of The Trump Administration. According to Bloomberg Law, “The Trump Administration will be allowed to restrict what taxpayer-funded family planning clinics can tell clients about abortion, the Ninth Circuit said Monday. The appeals court vacated orders entered by federal courts in California, Oregon, and Washington blocking the rule’s enforcement, saying its challengers ‘will not succeed’ on the merits […] Judge Sandra S. Ikuta wrote the opinion, which was joined by Judges Edward Leavy, Jay S. Bybee, Consuelo M. Callahan, Milan D. Smith Jr., Eric D. Miller, and Kenneth K. Lee.” [Bloomberg Law, 2/24/20]
Trump Appointed Eric Miller To Be United States Circuit Judge For The Ninth Circuit. According to the White House, “Today President Donald J. Trump announced his intent to nominate the following judicial nominees […] Eric D. Miller, of Washington, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Ninth Circuit.” [White House, 1/22/19]
Trump Appointed Kenneth Lee To Be United States Circuit Judge For The Ninth Circuit. According to the White House, “Today, President Donald J. Trump announced his intent to nominate the following judicial nominees […] Kenneth Kiyul Lee of California, to serve as a Circuit Judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.“ [White House, 1/30/19]
Trump Conservative Nominee Steven Menashi’s Confirmation Pushed New York’s 2nd Circuit Appeals Court To The Right. According to Bloomberg Law, “White House lawyer Steven Menashi was confirmed Nov. 14 to the New York-based U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, giving that court a majority of judges appointed by Republican presidents […] Democrats sharply criticized his past writings on race, especially, although he said he rejects discrimination […] Menashi’s confirmation, coupled with that of William Nardini on Nov. 7, tips the Second Circuit to a majority of Republican-appointed judges. That court is centered in the nation’s financial capital and could wind up addressing more disputes around Trump controversies. On the same day Menashi was confirmed, Trump challenged a Second Circuit decision over access to his tax records at the U.S. Supreme Court. With Menashi, Republicans have now appointed seven of the court’s 13 members. Trump has seated five, while George W. Bush appointed two. Bill Clinton and Barack Obama each named three judges to the Second Circuit.” [Bloomberg Law, 11/14/19]
Menashi Had A Background Of Anti-Choice Rhetoric. According to NARAL, “Menashi submitted an amicus brief on behalf of former U.S. Department of Justice officials in Zubik v. Burwell arguing that the Affordable Care Act’s contraceptive coverage policy forced certain religious groups into ‘moral complicity’ with the use of contraception, despite an accommodation put in place for such groups by the Obama administration. Menashi compared such groups’ ‘moral complicity’ in the use of contraception to providing weapons to help someone commit a crime. As editor-in-chief of the Dartmouth Review, Menashi wrote several anti-choice articles and editorials. Menashi vocally opposed Dartmouth College’s decision to make emergency contraception, Plan B, available to students through campus health services. [NARAL, accessed 3/23/20]
The Senate Confirmation Of Judge Peter Phipps Flipped The Makeup Of The 3rd Circuit Court Of Appeals, Creating A Conservative Majority. According to Court House News, “The Senate on Tuesday confirmed a Pennsylvania federal judge to a seat on the Third Circuit over opposition from the state’s Democratic senator, giving the Philadelphia-based appeals court a conservative majority […] Trump then tapped Phipps for a promotion in May, nominating him to a position on the Third Circuit. Phipps’ confirmation with a 56-40 vote on Tuesday afternoon flips the makeup of the Third Circuit, giving the appeals court that hears cases from Delaware, New Jersey and Pennsylvania eight judges appointed by Republicans and six appointed by Democrats.” [Court House News, 7/16/19]
Judge Peter Phipps Had A Record Of Being Hostile To Reproductive Freedoms. According to NARAL, “Phipps has repeatedly defended a government policy that allows organizations that receive federal money to care for undocumented young people and victims of human trafficking to refuse to provide them with reproductive healthcare including contraception and abortion […] Phipps received a Distinguished Service Award from the U.S. Attorney General for his ‘untiring effort’ in defending the so-called ‘Partial-Birth Abortion Act’ of 2003. He was specifically involved in the government’s attempts to subpoena private medical records from Planned Parenthood affiliates across the country in an effort to defend the law, which bans a safe abortion procedure.” [NARAL, accessed 3/23/20]
If The Trend Continues, Lawsuits For Progressive Causes Like Reproductive Freedom Won’t Have A Friendly Court. According to Politico, “If the trend continues, it represents a major shift in the liberal wing of the judiciary, meaning lawsuits for progressive causes won’t find a friendly ear as easily as they have. The circuit has been the go-to venue for activist state attorneys eager to freeze Trump policies on health care, immigration and other social issues. It ruled against Trump's weakening of Obamacare's contraceptive mandate, as well as multiple versions of his travel ban […] ‘Forum shopping will be less attractive now that you have a basically balanced bench as far as Republican or Democratic nominees,’ said Katie Glenn, government affairs counsel for Americans United for Life, which focuses on litigation and legislation for the anti-abortion movement.” [Politico, 12/19/19]
July 16, 2019: The Trump Administration Began Enforcing Abortion "Gag Rule." According to Politico, “The Trump administration's decision to immediately bar family planning funds to groups, like Planned Parenthood, that perform or refer women for abortion could force some states and organizations to abandon the federal program that pays for contraception for low-income women. The administration said it will move forward with its new family planning overhaul, which critics deride as an abortion ‘gag rule,’ as it faces ongoing legal challenges from nearly two dozen states and organizations, including Planned Parenthood, the largest single recipient of funding in the program, known as Title X.” [Politico, 7/16/19]
Title X Was The Nation’s Public Family Planning Program That Provided Birth Control Services, STI Testing, And Treatment. According to the Guttmacher Institute, “Title X is the nation’s public family planning program, serving millions of patients who seek birth control services, STI testing and treatment, and related preventive care. The program was established as part of the Public Health Service Act in 1970 with the express intent of addressing inequities in access to contraceptives and related services, helping patients advance their right to exercise power over their own reproductive decisions. For half a century, Title X has funded a long-standing and trusted network of providers throughout the country, providing these critical services to patients who are low income, uninsured, young or otherwise underserved.” [Guttmacher, 2/5/20]
The Rule State That Title X Grant Funding Cannot Go To Clinicians That Discuss Abortion With Patients. According to Planned Parenthood Action, “The gag rule says Title X grants can’t go to clinicians who tell their patients how they can safely and legally access abortion (even if patients ask and even if a pregnancy threatens their health). The gag rule also takes grants away from health centers that separately provide abortion — like Planned Parenthood.” [Planned Parenthood Action, accessed 3/19/20]
Clinics Were Barred From Referring Patients To An Abortion Provider But Required To Refer Them For Prenatal Care, Regardless Of A Patient’s Wishes. According to Politico, “Clinics will now be barred from referring patients to an abortion provider but required to refer them for prenatal care, regardless of a patient's wishes. Clinics have always been banned from using Title X money for abortions, but the Trump administration argued greater separation was needed to prevent the intermingling of funds. Now, numerous state health agencies administering Title X funds, including some that are their state's lone recipient of program dollars, must decide whether to go forward with previous suggestions that they'd withdraw from Title X if the Trump rules took effect. Millions of dollars are on the line.” [Politico, 7/16/19]
Under The Rules Faith Based Groups That Oppose Abortion And Hormonal Birth Control Were Eligible For Federal Funding. According to Politico, “Faith-based groups that oppose abortion and hormonal birth control are also now eligible for funding under the rules. Earlier this year, the religiously affiliated clinic network Obria was awarded a three-year, $5.1 million grant in California. Although the group will only offer ‘natural’ family planning counseling such as abstinence and the rhythm method, it still must subcontract with clinics that provide other forms of contraception.” [Politico, 7/16/19]
Planned Parenthood, Which Served More Than 40 Percent Of U.S. Title X Patients Chose To Reject Funding Due To Restrictions, Leaving Large Parts Of The Country Without A Federally Funded Family Planning Provider. According to Politico, “Planned Parenthood, which serves more than 40 percent of the nation's Title X patients, confirmed Monday night it won't comply with the new rules. The group said Its clinics will start using their own emergency funds while it continues to fight the administration in court. Planned Parenthood, which still gets significant funding from Medicaid, has long been the only Title X funding recipient in Utah, and it covers a large portion of the population in several other states. Its exit from the program could leave parts of the country without a federally funded family planning provider.” [Politico, 7/16/19]
Without Planned Parenthood Clinics Supported By Title X, Other Types Of Title X-Supported Sites Would Have Had to Increase Their Contraceptive Client Caseloads By 70 Percent. According to Guttmacher, “Without Planned Parenthood clinics supported by Title X, other types of Title X–supported sites would need to increase their contraceptive client caseloads by an average of 70%. This poses massive challenges for the rest of the safety-net family planning provider network.” [Guttmacher, 8/29/19]
Other Title X Sites Were Not Readily Able To Replace Title X – Funded Planned Parenthood Health Centers.[Guttmacher, 8/29/19]
Guttmacher Institute: Trump’s Domestic ‘Gag Rule’ Slashed The Title X National Family Planning Network’s Patient Capacity In Half, Impacting 1.6 Million Female Patients Nationwide. According to Guttmacher, “New data from the Guttmacher Institute show that the Trump administration’s domestic “gag rule” has slashed the Title X national family planning network’s patient capacity in half, jeopardizing care for 1.6 million female patients nationwide […] Based on data available for 910 of those 981 sites, we estimate that these changes reduced the network’s capacity to provide women with contraceptive services by at least 46%, translating to roughly 1.6 million patients. In other words, the impact of the gag rule on the network’s capacity is much greater than it might appear when looking at clinic numbers alone, because the gag rule intentionally targeted clinics specializing in reproductive health care services, sites that also serve the highest volume of contraceptive patients.” [Guttmacher, 2/5/20]
**January 23, 2017: President Trump Reinstated And Expanded The Mexico City Policy Renaming It "Protecting Life In Global Health Assistance." **According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, “On January 23, 2017, President Donald Trump reinstated and expanded the Mexico City Policy via presidential memorandum, renaming it ‘Protecting Life in Global Health Assistance.’ This explainer provides an overview of the policy, including its history, changes over time, and current application.” [Kaiser Family Foundation, 8/15/19]
The Mexico City Policy Required Foreign NGOs To Certify They Will Not "Perform Or Actively Promote Abortion As A Method Of Family Planning" In Order To Receive U.S. Government Global Family Planning Assistance. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, “First announced in 1984 by the Reagan administration, the policy has been rescinded and reinstated by subsequent administrations along party lines and has now been in effect for 19 of the past 34 years. The policy requires foreign non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to certify that they will not ‘perform or actively promote abortion as a method of family planning’ using funds with any source (including non-U.S. funds) as a condition for receiving U.S. government global family planning assistance and, as of Jan. 23, 2017, most other U.S. global health assistance.” [Kaiser Family Foundation, 8/15/19]
**The Mexico City Policy Was Also Referred To As The "Global Gag Rule." **According to Human Rights Watch, “This policy is also widely known as the ‘Global Gag Rule’ due to the restrictions it places on how organizations use their own non-US government funds, including through limiting conversations that health providers can have with their patients and preventing them from pressing for legal change in their own countries.” [Human Rights Watch, 2/14/18]
The Global Gag Rule Included A Majority Of U.S. Bilateral Global Health Assistance, Marking A Significant Expansion Of Its Scope. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, “The Trump administration’s application of the policy to the vast majority of U.S. bilateral global health assistance, including funding for HIV under the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), maternal and child health, malaria, nutrition, and other programs, marks a significant expansion of its scope, potentially encompassing $7.4 billion in FY 2019, to the extent that such funding is ultimately provided to foreign NGOs, directly or indirectly (family planning assistance accounted for approximately $600 million of that total).” [Kaiser Family Foundation, 8/15/19]
Trump Implemented A Plan To Expand The Global Gag Rule On Abortion. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, “The Administration’s more recent extension of the policy to include any financial support (health or otherwise) provided by foreign NGOs for any purpose to other foreign NGOs that perform or actively promote abortion as a method of family planning4 is likely to encompass significant additional funding.” [Kaiser Family Foundation, 8/15/19]
The Global Gag Rule Expanded To Ban Aid To Foreign Groups That Support Other Foreign Groups That Promote Or Provide Abortions. According to NBC News, “The Trump administration is expanding a ban on U.S. aid to foreign groups that promote or provide abortions to include those who support others who do, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced Tuesday. ‘We will enforce a strict prohibition on back-door funding schemes and end runs around our policy,’ Pompeo said. ‘American taxpayer dollars will not be used to underwrite abortions’ […] Pompeo said the ban will now extend to those foreign NGOs that provide financial support to other groups who provide abortion services or counseling.” [NBC News, 3/26/19]
The New Terms Of The Global Gag Rule Applied To $8.8. Billion In Foreign Aid. According to the Guardian, “The Trump administration on Monday significantly expanded a Reagan-era policy banning foreign aid to international healthcare providers who discuss abortion or advocate for abortion rights, in a move critics fear will jeopardize efforts to fight diseases such as malaria, HIV/Aids, and the Zika virus. The new terms of the ban will apply to $8.8bn in existing foreign aid provided by the state department, USAid, and the Department of Defense – dwarfing the $600m in programming that fell under the ban during previous administrations.” [The Guardian, 5/15/17]
Critics Argued That The Expanded Mexico City Policy Would Significantly Cut Aid To Groups Combatting Public Health Crises. According to the Guardian, “Critics feared the broader policy could significantly cut aid to groups combating the types of infectious diseases that have plagued poorer countries. ‘There is no indication that the Trump administration has conducted any assessment of the impact of the expanded global gag rule,’ said Serra Sippel, the president of the Center for Health and Gender Equity. ‘For example, how will this expansion impact prevention of the spread of HIV or Zika, especially given the role of contraceptives in prevention efforts?’” [The Guardian, 5/15/17]
Human Rights Watch: The Expanded 2017 Gag Rule Triggered Reductions In Sexual And Reproductive Health Services From Well-Established Organizations. According to Human Rights Watch, “Human Rights Watch found the policy has triggered reductions in key sexual and reproductive health services from well-established organizations that cannot easily be replaced. For example, Family Health Options Kenya (FHOK) runs 16 healthcare facilities in the country. FHOK representatives told us the organization will not comply with the restrictions and therefore will lose US funds, which make up roughly 60 percent of its budget, and that it may have to cut as many as half of its services. By July 2017, the organization had already closed one clinic and canceled 100 planned outreach events, including for cervical cancer screening, HIV testing, and family planning counseling, that typically reach 100 people each time. Another organization, Reproductive Healthcare Network Kenya has lost about two-thirds of its funding and has canceled many activities, including trainings on safe abortion care for doctors and other healthcare providers. Reproductive Health Uganda, which serves 1.2 million people a year, is ending large health programs previously paid for by the US government. [Human Rights Watch, 2/14/18]
The Trump Administration Asked The Supreme Court To Reinstate A Rule Mandating Abortion Seekers To Visit Health Care Providers In Person To Acquire One Of The Pills For Medication Abortions, After Lower Courts Blocked The Rule During The Coronavirus Pandemic. According to CNN, “The Trump administration is asking the Supreme Court to reinstate a rule requiring abortion seekers to visit health care providers in person to acquire one of the pills for medication abortions, after lower courts blocked the rule during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The escalated fight surrounding the pills -- which the Food and Drug Administration does not require to be taken while with the health care provider -- is the latest development in a pandemic-era clash over abortion access that has increasingly manifested as a battle of regulations.” [CNN, 8/26/20]
The FDA Did Not Specify Where The Drug, Mifepristone, Had To Be Taken. According to CNN, “Medication abortion, a nonsurgical procedure effective until about 10 weeks into a pregnancy, typically entails taking two drugs several days apart. The contested regulation concerns mifepristone, the first drug, which works to block the hormone progesterone necessary for a pregnancy to continue. The FDA information page on mifepristone states that the drug ‘may only be dispensed in clinics, medical offices, and hospitals by or under the supervision of a certified healthcare provider,’ but does not specify where the patient must take it. The second drug taken in a medication abortion, misoprostol, causes cramps and heavy bleeding as the uterus expels its contents. It can be taken ‘at a location appropriate for the patient,’ according to the FDA.” [CNN, 8/26/20]
The Trump Administration’s Challenge Came After Several Reproductive Health Groups Sued The FDA In May Over The Rule, Stating That It Was Unconstitutional For The Agency To Maintain The Rule For The Abortion Drug While Waiving It For Other Drugs In Light Of The Pandemic. According to CNN, “The Trump administration's challenge comes after several reproductive health groups, represented by the American Civil Liberties Union, sued the FDA in May over the long-standing requirement, arguing that it was unconstitutional for the agency to maintain the rule for the abortion drug while lifting it for other drugs in light of the pandemic. ‘By making life-threatening viral exposure risks a condition of treatment for medication abortion and miscarriage care, the FDA's continued maintenance of the Mifepristone In-Person Dispensing Requirement jeopardizes the safety of patients, clinicians, and the public at large, with no countervailing benefit—and with particularly severe implications for low-income people and people of color, who comprise a disproportionate share of impacted patients and who are already suffering and dying from COVID-19 at substantially higher rates,’ the ACLU wrote at the time. A lower court sided with the groups and temporarily blocked the requirement in July, and a federal appeals court denied the administration's efforts to overturn the ruling earlier this month.” [CNN, 8/26/20]
In Daily Caller Op-Ed With President Of Susan B. Anthony List, Pence Said GOP Should Merge Traditional Conservative Values With Successes of Trump-Pence Administration, Touted “Freedom Agenda.” According to the Daily Caller Op-Ed, “Since the Supreme Court legalized abortion in 1973, more than 62 million unborn children in the United States have been aborted. In other words, nearly 20% of the U.S. population is gone — lives of incalculable promise were ended before they were born. […] Today, the Biden administration is continuing to advance abortion on demand at home, allowing foreign aid to be used for abortion overseas, and President Joe Biden has even announced his support for taxpayer funding of abortion. […] The Freedom Agenda encourages conservatives to embrace policies that will honor the God-given dignity of all people and restore the sanctity of human life to the center of American law. […] Merging traditional conservative values with the successes of the Trump-Pence administration is a proven formula that will lead to extraordinary growth for our nation.” [Daily Caller Op-Ed, Mike Pence And Marjorie Dannenfelser, 4/7/22]
Pence Scheduled To Headline Sold Out May 5 Dinner At Carolina Pregnancy Center. According to Fox News, “The executive director of the Carolina Pregnancy Center tells Fox News that ‘all the reserve seating is sold out and has been sold out for a couple of weeks and we’re still getting calls from people’ regarding a May 5 dinner on behalf of the facility that’s being headlined by former Vice President Mike Pence. Newman said that as of Friday, more than 1,600 tickets had been sold, with general admission seats still being sold. ‘We’ve never had one sell this fast. It’s amazing,’ said Newman, who for more than three decades has steered the Christian facility that provides counseling, supplies, and adoption services to women who decide to go through with unplanned pregnancies. The center, located in Spartanburg in South Carolina’s solidly red northwest corner, has become a must-stop for some GOP presidential hopefuls in recent election cycles, as they’ve flocked to the Palmetto State to showcase their pro-life credentials in front of the state’s social conservative Republican primary voters.” [Fox News, 4/3/22]
Great Honor To Speak At Carolina Pregnancy Center, Pence Tweeted. According to a tweet from Mike Pence, “It was a great honor to be at the Carolina Pregnancy Center tonight! For 35 years, the Carolina Pregnancy Center has been changing the culture for life, one life at a time, and we are so grateful for all of their work!” [Twitter, @Mike_Pence, 5/5/22]
After Carolina Pregnancy Center Speech, Pence Tweeted Will Not Stop Working Until Every Unborn Child Protected In The Law. According to a tweet from Mike Pence, “We are here to declare with one voice, Roe Must Go! We will never stop working until every child, born and unborn, is protected in the law as a precious gift from God.” [Twitter, @Mike_Pence, 5/5/22]
Pence Tweeted On Need To Continue To Lead The Fight For “Right To Life” If Roe Is Overturned. According to a tweet from Mike Pence, “The end of Roe will be a turning point in American history—but it will not be the end of the story. A new battlefield for Life will emerge, and we must lead the fight for the right to Life in every state in the land with resolve and compassion.” [Twitter, @Mike_Pence, 5/5/22]
Spartanburg Speech Seen As Opportunity For 2024 Candidates To Show Pro-Life Credentials. According to Fox News, “The center, located in Spartanburg in the state’s conservative northwest corner, has become a must-stop for some GOP presidential hopefuls in recent election cycles, as they’ve flocked to South Carolina to showcase their pro-life credentials in front of the state’s socially conservative Republican primary voters.” [Fox News, 5/5/22]
In Carolina Pregnancy Center Speech, Pence Hoped Five Justices Have “Courage Of Their Convictions” To Overturn Roe. According to The Hill, “Former Vice President Mike Pence on Thursday urged people to pray for the five justices listed in the leaked draft Supreme Court opinion that would overturn Roe v. Wade to have ‘the courage of their convictions’ in repealing the landmark 1973 decision. ‘My hope, and frankly my prayer, is that those five justices on the Supreme Court have the courage of their convictions and will give us a fresh start on life in America,’ Pence said at a gala for the Carolina Pregnancy Center. Pence claimed that the leak of the document was intended to intimidate the five justices who reportedly support the draft majority opinion.” [The Hill, 5/5/22]
Pence Claimed 62 Million Abortions In U.S. In Carolina Pregnancy Center Speech. According to The Hill, s“‘More than 62 million unborn children in the United States … lives of incalculable promise were ended before they were ever begun and countless young women have experienced sorrow and regret that can last a lifetime,’ said Pence.” [The Hill, 5/5/22]
Pence Said To Pray For Protection And Well-Being Of Supreme Court Justices, Especially 5 Named In Leaked Majority Opinion Overturning Roe. According to a tweet from Mike Pence, “Pray for the protection and well-being of all the Justices on the Supreme Court of the United States and especially pray that the 5 Justices in the majority opinion leaked this week will have the courage of their convictions to right a historic wrong.” [Twitter, @Mike_Pence, 5/5/22]
In Lakewood Baptist Church Speech, Pence Hoped Five Justices Would Have “Courage Of Their Convictions” To Strike Down Roe. According to Fox News, “Former Vice President Mike Pence says he hopes that the five conservative justices on the nine-member Supreme Court have the ‘courage of their convictions’ to strike down the nearly half century old landmark Roe v. Wade abortion ruling. […] The former vice president, a friend to social conservatives who’s long pushed for restrictions on abortion, made his comments Thursday in a speech to several hundred congregants gathered at Lakewood Baptist Church in Rock Hill, South Carolina, for a National Day of Prayer service.” [Fox News, 5/5/22]
Pence Called on Biden To Speak Out Against Violent Protests Or Disruption Of Religious Services Surrounding Leaked Roe Decision. According to the Daily Wire, “Former Vice President Mike Pence called on President Joe Biden to ‘speak out forcefully’ as protestors plan demonstrations at the homes of the Supreme Court justices and at Catholic masses. ‘President Biden should speak out forcefully, make it clear that those who support his view on abortion, on the Supreme Court, let their voice be heard, but heard peacefully and respect the law,’ Pence said in a Saturday morning interview with The Daily Wire. ‘The president of the United States is the chief law enforcement officer of the United States of America,’ he continued. ‘And he ought to make it very, very clear that anyone who would engage in violence or threaten violence or disrupt religious services would be held to the strictest account.’” [Daily Wire, 5/7/22]
Pence Invoked Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg In Response To Leaked Supreme Court Draft Decision Overturning Roe. According to a tweet from Mike Pence, “The late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg once wrote that the Court’s decision in Roe was ‘heavy-handed judicial intervention’ that ‘was difficult to justify.’ Now our Supreme Court has a chance to right that historic wrong once and for all!” [Twitter, @Mike_Pence, 5/3/22]
Pence Quote-Tweeted Daughter On “Pro-Life” Movement. According to a tweet from Mike Pence, “So Well Said @charlibond_. Proud of Your Stand for Life!” [Twitter, @Mike_Pence, 5/5/22]
Pence Looked To Lean Into Abortion Issue Ahead Of 2024 Primaries. According to Yahoo News, “Whether the abortion issue propels Pence back to the White House or not, the former vice president has been addressing anti-abortion and Christian right groups in key early-voting states as part of the ‘pre-run’ for president that he and almost a dozen other potential Republican contenders have been doing for more than a year.” [Yahoo News, 5/6/22]
Abortion Has Been Centerpiece Of Pence’s Political Life, Pence Looked To Appeal To Evangelical Christians Since End Of Trump Administration. According to the Associated Press, “The issue of abortion has long been a centerpiece of Pence’s political life, dating to his days in Congress and as governor of Indiana. He has spent the months since the end of the Trump administration trying to position himself as a conservative who can appeal both to his white Evangelical Christian base, as well as Trump supporters and those who may have been fond of Trump’s policies, but not his pugilistic style. As he mulls a possible presidential bid, Pence has built a post-White House operation that includes a political advocacy group, delivering speeches, fundraising and bolstering relationships that could help him, should he choose to run in 2024.” [Associated Press, 5/6/22]
South Carolina Seen As Significant To Potential Pence 2024 GOP Presidential Primary Victory With Large Contingent Of White Evangelical Christian Voters. According to the Associated Press, “South Carolina would be key to Pence should be seek the presidency in 2024, with its large contingent of white evangelical conservative voters. Last year, Pence chose South Carolina as the scene of his first public speech since leaving the Trump administration, addressing a fundraiser for a conservative Christian nonprofit.” [Associated Press, 5/6/22]
Pence Reacted To News Of Vandalism Of Wisconsin Anti-Abortion Group, Called For All To Condemn “Heinous Attack.” According to a tweet from Mike Pence, “Every American leader, starting with @POTUS, should condemn this heinous attack on @WIFamilyAction headquarters immediately and those responsible should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” [Twitter, @Mike_Pence, 5/8/22]
Pence Said He Was Praying Leaked Draft Opinion To Overturn Roe Becomes Final Majority Opinion. According to Fox News, “Former Vice President Mike Pence told Fox News on Wednesday he is praying the leaked draft opinion that would overturn Roe v. Wade becomes the final majority opinion of the high court. ‘Let me say that it is my hope and literally my prayer that the draft opinion that was leaked a week ago in the Dobbs case before the Supreme Court becomes the majority opinion and that we're able to overturn Roe versus Wade and return the question of abortion to the states and the American people,’ Pence told host Martha MacCallum on ‘The Story.’ ‘As a pro-life American, I welcome that. And I truly do believe that it's a pathway toward literally lowering the volume on this issue by returning it to the American people and to their elected representatives.’” [Fox News, 5/11/22]
Pence Condemned Protests In Front Of Justices’ Homes. According to Fox News, “Pence condemned left-wing protests in front of justices' homes, telling ‘The Story’ they are intimidation attempts and violate federal law. He urged President Biden to condemn them. ‘And leave aside, beyond all of that, these despicable acts of vandalism that have been taking place in pro-life organizations around the country,’ Pence added.” [Fox News, 5/11/22]
Pence Seen As Capitalizing On Leaked Opinion Overturning Roe To Contrast With Trump And Highlight Anti-Abortion Career. According to POLITICO, “Nearly a year after he was booed and jeered as a ‘traitor’ at the Faith and Freedom Coalition conference in Orlando for his refusal to overturn the election results, Pence’s tightly scripted comeback ahead of a potential 2024 presidential bid is showing returns. Since POLITICO reported on the Supreme Court’s draft opinion overturning Roe v. Wade, Pence has moved to channel a newly simpatico GOP base. He is finding purposeful ways to contrast with Trump on issues ranging from highlighting his own decadeslong record of anti-abortion advocacy to calling for a muscular response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Next week, he’ll cross Trump by holding a rally with Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp on the eve of his GOP primary, a direct challenge to Trump’s endorsement of Kemp challenger David Perdue.” [POLITICO, 5/16/22]
Pence’s History Of Opposing Abortion Rights In Spotlight As 2024 Speculation Increases. According to POLITICO, “As we get into the sanctity of life issue and the potential of having Roe. v. Wade overturned, he has been a champion of life,” said Bob Vander Plaats, president and CEO of The Family Leader, a conservative Christian parent organization for the Iowa Family Policy Center. ‘It’s definitely in his comfort zone. If this becomes a big issue, a defining issue when it comes to 2024, that will be in his wheelhouse.’” [POLITICO, 5/16/22]