¶ Reproductive Rights
¶ Post-Roe Leak
¶ Budd: “I’ve Been Very Consistently Pro-life. I Want To Save As Many Unborn Lives As Possible.”
Budd: “I’ve Been Very Consistently Pro-life. I Want To Save As Many Unborn Lives As Possible.” According to ABC 11, “During a tour of Durham Tech Thursday, Cheri Beasley, the Democratic Senate candidate, wore a necklace with the words ‘Protect Roe’ sharing her displeasure with the Supreme Court decision overturning the nearly 50-year ruling. ‘I’ve been very consistently pro-life. I want to save as many unborn lives as possible,’ said Budd, who backed legislation in his first year in office for a nationwide ban on abortion at 20 weeks.” [ABC 11, 8/1/22]
¶ Beasley Stated That “It’s Ted Budd Who Believes In An Absolute Ban On Abortion — Even In The Case Of Rape, Incest Or Risk To The Mother’s Health, Continuing To Say “I Know We Were All Taught That Actions Speak Louder Than Words. And He Just Doesn’t Speak For Us. Because This Budd Is Not For You”
During A Speech, Beasley Stated That “It’s Ted Budd Who Believes In An Absolute Ban On Abortion — Even In The Case Of Rape, Incest Or Risk To The Mother’s Health, Continuing To Say “I Know We Were All Taught That Actions Speak Louder Than Words. And He Just Doesn’t Speak For Us. Because This Budd Is Not For You.” According to WFAE 90.7, “Beasley did not mention abortion at first during her opening 15-minute speech. But during a question and answer with the audience, she worked it in. She said her opponent, Republican Congressman Ted Budd, wants a total ban. ‘It’s Ted Budd who believes in an absolute ban on abortion — even in the case of rape, incest or risk to the mother’s health,’ Beasley said. ‘He voted against the contraception legislation.’ She continued: ‘And I know we were all taught that actions speak louder than words. And he just doesn’t speak for us. Because this Budd is not for you.’” [WFAE 90.7, 8/18/22]
¶ Budd Celebrated The Potential Overturning Of Roe V Wade
[AUDIO] Budd Stated That Overturning Roe V. Wade “This Could Be A Great This Could Be A You Know, 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]
[AUDIO] Budd Stated That He Was “Very Much In Anticipation For What The Supreme Court Is About To Do” Referring To Their Impending Decision In Dobbs V. Jackson. “You know, what we're seeing. We're seeing streets blocked off. We're seeing additional security, you know, some of the things we can't really share. But I would say, we definitely want to be on our toes to keep our eyes up. And let's just let's get back to the rule of law and realize that this is the constitutional process. It was in 1973. And now it is in 2022. And we're following the process. So I just, you don't need to do that. You don't need to respond to that. With the left with violence. And this is the way it's played out. And thank goodness, we're very much in anticipation of what the Supreme Court is about to do. And we pray that we get out in front of this and follow the rule of law.” [KC O'Dea, 6/14/2022]
[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]
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 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
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 On Whether He Would Support Outlawing Abortion When The Mother’s Life Is At Risk: “I Think That’s Something That You Have To Look At. It Has To Be A Discussion With Your Doctor, But Let’s Make Sure That We Don’t Add More Tragedy To An Already Tough Situation.” According to WRAL, “When asked if he supports outlawing abortions even when the mother’s life is at risk, Budd replied, ‘I think that’s something that you have to look at. It has to be a discussion with your doctor, but let’s make sure that we don’t add more tragedy to an already tough situation.”’ [WRAL, 5/3/22]
¶ Budd Praised The Supreme Court Decision Overturning Roe v. Wade
Budd Praised The Supreme Court Ruling Overturning Roe And Said It Was “A Historic Victory For The Millions Of Americans Who Believe That Every Life Is Precious And Deserves Protection.” According to WITN, “Rep. Ted Budd, (R-NC) 13th District & U.S. Senate Candidate: ‘Today’s ruling by the Supreme Court is a historic victory for the millions of Americans who believe that every life is precious and deserves protection. And it is a victory for the millions of unborn children who may now realize the most fundamental of all human rights, the right to life. The Court’s ruling correctly empowers the people’s representatives in each state to decide how best to protect unborn lives. As a conscience-drive pro-life advocate, I will continue to support protections for unborn children everywhere.’” [WITN, 6/24/22]
Budd Issued A Statement After The Scotus Ruling Overturning Roe V. Wade Calling The Decision “A Victory For The Millions Of Unborn Children Who May Now Realize The Most Fundamental Of All Human Rights, The Right To Life.” According to Charlotte Observer, “At a news conference Friday in Raleigh, Democratic nominee Cheri Beasley, the former N.C. Supreme Court chief justice, said the ruling has brought the country to a turning point, one that she hoped would energize Democratic voters. Her Republican competitor, U.S. Rep. Ted Budd, issued a statement of his own, calling the decision ‘a victory for the millions of unborn children who may now realize the most fundamental of all human rights, the right to life.’” [Charlotte Observer, 6/27/22]
Budd Celebrated The Supreme Court Ruling Overturning Roe V. Wade, Calling It A Historic Victory. Budd tweeted, “Today’s ruling by the Supreme Court is a historic victory for the millions of Americans who believe that every life is precious and deserves protection. #ProLife My full statement ⬇️” [Twitter, @RepTedBudd, 6/24/22]
¶ Budd Fundraised Off The Overturning Of Roe v. Wade And Democratic Efforts To Codify Roe In Federal Law
Budd Sent A Fundraising Email Attacking Congressional Democrats’ Efforts To Codify Roe In Federal Law, Stating That “Unfortunately, We Now Face The Outrage Of Radical Abortion Activists,” Warning That “They’re Going To Try Their Hardest To Fund-raise, Mobilize, And Take Down Pro-lifers.” According to New York Times, “Ms. Beasley’s opponent, Representative Ted Budd, had a fund-raising message of his own, attacking Congressional Democrats’ efforts to codify Roe in federal law, which failed a test vote in the Senate in May. ‘Today is a great day for the unborn, thanks to the prayers and hard work of many people to ensure constitutional justices are on our Supreme Court!’ Mr. Budd wrote. He added that ‘unfortunately, we now face the outrage of radical abortion activists,’ warning that ‘they’re going to try their hardest to fund-raise, mobilize, and take down pro-lifers — we have to fight back too.’” [New York Times, 6/24/22]
¶ Despite Claiming ABortion Was A State Issue, Budd Co-Sponsored A House Bill Banning Abortion Nationwide
¶ Budd Claimed That Abortion Legislation “Belongs In Raleigh And Not Washington DC”
Despite Claiming That “Now It’s A States’ Issue” When Asked About Abortion Policies, Less Than A Week Later, Budd Cosponsored A House Bill That Would Ban Most Abortions After 15 Weeks. According to Dispatch, “The pattern shows up again on abortion. Budd’s stump speech—inflation, crime, and illegal immigration are bad, and parents should have a say in their kids’ education—is standard fare. But Budd doesn’t mention abortion. At the Mecklenburg County GOP Picnic, Budd demurred when I asked him what abortion policies he’d support in the Senate. ‘I’m federal; now it’s a states’ issue,’ he said. ‘The Democrats are the ones that are out of step with people. I’m for making it a states’ issue; they’re for making it radical.’ But less than a week later, he cosponsored a House bill that would ban most abortions after 15 weeks gestation while preserving states’ right to pursue stricter limits. Budd always concludes by quoting his grandfather. ‘‘Do what you say you’re gonna do.’ … That’s the kind of senator I’m gonna be.’” [Dispatch, 9/27/22]
Budd Claimed That Abortion Legislation “Belongs In Raleigh And Not Washington DC.” According to ABC 13 News, “‘The Supreme Court made it clear. This is a Raleigh decision, not a Washington decision,’ Budd said. ‘I think it’s better to send it to Raleigh and the state legislature rather than in Washington DC or nine people in 1973 making that decision.’ The congressman was then asked about his personal stance on abortion, since North Carolina has a 20-week abortion ban. ‘I believe it belongs in Raleigh and not Washington DC. I think our state legislatures will make the right decision,’ Budd said.” [ABC 13 News, 9/29/22]
¶ However, Days Later, The Congressman Cosponsored A 15-Week National Abortion Ban Bill In The U.S. House
However, Days Later, The Congressman Cosponsored A 15-Week National Abortion Ban Bill In The U.S. House That He Claimed Was In Response To Democrats Who Wanted To Codify On A Federal Level. According to ABC 13 News, “Days later, the congressman cosponsored a 15-week national abortion ban bill in the U.S. House. His campaign said it’s in response to Democrats who want to codify on a federal level and Budd doesn’t want tax dollars being used for abortions on demand to the moment of birth.” [ABC 13 News, 9/29/22]
More Than 80 Republicans, Including Budd, Co-sponsored A House Version Of Graham’s Abortion Ban. According to Spectrum News 1, “The bill is not without Republican support, however. A House version of the bill was co-sponsored by more than 80 Republicans, including Rep. Ted Budd, R-N.C., who is running for U.S. Senate in North Carolina against Democrat Cheri Beasley.” [Spectrum News 1, 9/14/22]
Budd Signed On As A Co-sponsor Of A House Version Of Graham’s Senate Legislation. According to ABC News, “Rep. Ted Budd, R- N.C., running in a competitive Senate race against Democrat Cheri Beasley, on Wednesday also signed on as co-sponsor of a House version of Graham’s Senate legislation.” [ABC News, 9/14/22]
On Wednesday, Budd Signed On As One Of 84 Co-sponsors Of The U.S. House Version Of A Bill To Ban Abortion After 15 Weeks Gestation, With Exceptions For Rape, Incest And When The Life Of The Mother Is In Danger. According to The Carolina Journal, “The Democrats’ Senate Majority PAC spent $700,000 dollars in August attacking Budd in ads that ran in the Charlotte market claiming that he wants to completely ban abortion with no exceptions, calling him ‘extreme.’ On Wednesday, Budd signed on as one of 84 co-sponsors of the U.S. House version of a bill to ban abortion after 15 weeks gestation, with exceptions for rape, incest and when the life of the mother is in danger.” [The Carolina Journal, 9/15/22]
¶ Budd's Support For Strict Abortion Bans May Have Harmed His Chances In The Election
A Senior Republican Official In North Carolina Said Budd’s Reluctance To Talk To The News Media Or Voters Will Not Help Him Attract Unaffiliated Women Voters Concerned About His Strict Opposition To Abortion. According to Reuters, “A senior Republican official in North Carolina said Budd’s reluctance to talk to the news media or voters will not help him attract unaffiliated women voters concerned about his strict opposition to abortion. ‘This is an issue that he needs to get in front of or else it could really hurt,’ the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.” [Reuters, 9/9/22]
¶ Global Strategy Group Polling Memo: “Budd’s Corruption And Extremism, Particularly His Support For A Total Abortion Ban, Is Causing Him To Lose Support Among Voters"
Global Strategy Group Polling Memo: “Budd’s Corruption And Extremism, Particularly His Support For A Total Abortion Ban, Is Causing Him To Lose Support Among Voters And Further Investment Is Needed To Ensure Voters Know Budd For Who He Is.” According to Global Strategy Group polling memo, “The bottom line is the Beasley campaign continues to fight this race to a draw and has built a campaign that has already withstood at least $17.8 million in outside spending from various Republican groups. Our research has identified multiple ways to define Budd and highlight the stakes in this race for voters. Budd’s corruption and extremism, particularly his support for a total abortion ban, is causing him to lose support among voters and further investment is needed to ensure voters know Budd for who he is.” [Global Strategy Group – Polling Memo, 9/25/22]
Global Strategy Group: “Only 7% Of North Carolina Share Ted Budd’s Extreme Views That Abortion Should Be Illegal With No Exceptions, Including Only 8% Of Selfidentified Republicans And 9% Of Trump Voters.” According to Global Strategy Group polling memo, “Voters have deep concerns about Congressman Budd being a corrupt and extreme politician. Only 7% of North Carolina share Ted Budd’s extreme views that abortion should be illegal with no exceptions, including only 8% of selfidentified Republicans and 9% of Trump voters. A message informing voters of Budd’s position on abortion, including his support for a nationwide abortion ban with no exceptions for rape, incest, and life of the mother, raises doubts with 70% of North Carolina voters. In addition, 71% of voters said that Congressman Budd’s role in a bankruptcy that cost farmers millions raised doubts about voting for him. Nearly two-thirds of voters said that his record of siding with big banks and big pharmaceutical companies and voting against lowering costs for North Carolinians raised doubts about voting for him.” [Global Strategy Group – Polling Memo, 9/25/22]
¶ Budd Was Criticized For Sponsoring The Nationwide Abortion Ban
¶ Budd's Opponent Called The Congressman Out For His Support Of The 15 Week Abortion Ban
Budd’s Opponent Cheri Beasley Called Out Budd For Sponsoring The Nationwide Abortion Ban, Stating “I Was Taught That Actions Speak Louder Than Words – And Budd Has Shown That He Will Lead The Charge To Take Away Our Personal Freedoms As Senator. Full Stop.” According to Spectrum News 1, “’My opponent Congressman Ted Budd co-sponsored the Republican bill to ban abortion nationwide,’ said North Carolina Democrat Cheri Beasley, who is running against Rep. Budd for the state’s open U.S. Senate seat, wrote on Twitter. ‘I was taught that actions speak louder than words – and Budd has shown that he WILL lead the charge to take away our personal freedoms as Senator. Full stop.’” [Spectrum News 1, 9/14/22]
In A Statement, Beasley Wrote That Budd’s “National Abortion Ban Will Not Only Take Away Our Freedom – It Will Cost North Carolina Women Their Lives And He Owes An Explanation To Every Woman Whose Life He Has Now Put At Risk.” According to ABC 11, “‘Congressman Budd will stop at nothing to put himself between women and doctors. His national abortion ban will not only take away our freedom – it will cost North Carolina women their lives and he owes an explanation to every woman whose life he has now put at risk,’ Beasley wrote in a statement.” [ABC 11, 9/15/22]
¶ Pro Choice Groups Slammed Budd For Supporting An Abortion Ban
Pro-Choice NC Director Tara Romano Stated “We Need Elected Officials, In Congress And In Our Statehouses, To Create Policies And Laws That Reflect That The Majority Of People Here Support Legal Abortion.” According to North Carolina Democratic Party Press Release, “‘The stakes of the coming election couldn’t be more clear. We need elected officials, in Congress and in our statehouses, to create policies and laws that reflect that the majority of people here support legal abortion. We deserve better than to be treated like pawns in political power plays, and we urge voters who support abortion access, and all reproductive rights and healthcare, as well as democracy, to make their voices heard at the polls in November,’ said Pro-Choice NC Executive Director Tara Romano.” [North Carolina Democratic Party – Press Release, 9/15/22]
Jillian Riley, NC Director Of Public Affairs Of Planned Parenthood Claimed That The Proposed Federal 15 Week Abortion Ban Was “About Control, And They Won’t Stop Until Abortion Is Banned Across The Country.” According to ABC 11, “A proposed federal 15-week abortion ban, introduced by South Carolina Republican Lindsay Graham, has drawn strong reaction from abortion rights and anti-abortion rights activists. ‘The chaos, the confusion, and the devastation that we are seeing across the country is exactly the environment anti-abortion lawmakers have worked for decades to create. This is about control, and they won’t stop until abortion is banned across the country,’ said Jillian Riley, NC Director of Public Affairs of Planned Parenthood.” [ABC 11, 9/15/22]
- Jillian Riley, North Carolina Director Of Public Affairs Of Planned Parenthood Votes! South Atlantic Stated That “Lawmakers Hostile To Reproductive Rights Want To Control Our Bodies, Our Lives, And Our Future As A Means To Hold On To Their Power.’ According to North Carolina Democratic Party Press Release, “‘With these laws, these anti-abortion lawmakers are telling us what they plan to do should they gain power in Congress, and we should take them at their word. Lawmakers hostile to reproductive rights want to control our bodies, our lives, and our future as a means to hold on to their power. The American people overwhelmingly support access to legal abortion and are furious with lawmakers imposing abortion bans and interfering with their personal health care decisions,’ said Jillian Riley, NC Director of Public Affairs of Planned Parenthood Votes! South Atlantic.” [North Carolina Democratic Party – Press Release, 9/15/22]
An Arm Of The Pro-Abortion-Rights Emily’s List Announced This Month Spending $2.7 Million To Criticize Budd On Abortion. According to Associated Press, “An arm of the pro-abortion-rights EMILY’s List announced this month spending $2.7 million to criticize Budd on abortion as well.” [Associated Press, 9/23/22]
¶ The North Carolina Democratic Party Attacked Budd For His Extreme Stance
In Response To The Fifteen Week Abortion Ban Proposed By Republicans, North Carolina Democratic Party Chair Bobbie Richardson Stated That “Ted Budd Will Stand With Republicans To Pass A National Abortion Ban And Take Away North Carolinians’ Freedom, While Cheri Beasley Will Protect Our Freedoms And Ensure People Are Able To Make Their Own Medical Decisions.” According to North Carolina Democratic Party Press Release, “North Carolina Democratic Party Chair Bobbie Richardson issued the following statement in response to Republican legislation to pass a national abortion ban: ‘The stakes of this election couldn’t be more clear. Ted Budd will stand with Republicans to pass a national abortion ban and take away North Carolinians’ freedom, while Cheri Beasley will protect our freedoms and ensure people are able to make their own medical decisions.’” [North Carolina Democratic Party - Press Release, 9/13/22]
North Carolina Democratic Party: ICYMI: NCDP Chair, Planned Parenthood Votes!, Pro-Choice NC React To Ted Budd Co-Sponsoring National Abortion Ban. [North Carolina Democratic Party – Press Release, 9/16/22]
North Carolina Chair Bobbie Richardson Stated That “By Putting His Name On This Piece Of Legislation, Ted Budd Continues To Show North Carolinians Just How Dangerous He Would Be In The U.S. Senate.” According to North Carolina Democratic Party Press Release, “’By putting his name on this piece of legislation, Ted Budd continues to show North Carolinians just how dangerous he would be in the U.S. Senate. Folks, this is not a hypothetical. This is the reality and future that Ted Budd wants for women in North Carolina and he has made clear he will stop at nothing to put himself between women and doctors,’ said NCDP Chair Bobbie Richardson.” [North Carolina Democratic Party – Press Release, 9/15/22]
¶ Budd Claimed That Democrats Were Using The Dobbs Decision As A Distraction During The Midterms Despite Co-Sponsoring A Nationwide Abortion Ban Himself
[AUDIO] Budd Claimed That Democrats Were Using The Dobbs Decision As A “Distraction,” Claiming That No Rights Are Being Taken Away Because “No Legislation In North Carolina Changes" A Woman's Access To Abortion Care. "The left is going to try to throw out every distraction and they're going to you know, when nothing changes in North Carolina, they're just going to run endless ad nauseam ads about how you know rights being taken away regarding the Dobbs decision, but actually no legislation in North Carolina that changes that." [Wilmington Morning News with Nick Craig, 9/21/22]
¶ Budd Voted Against Codifying Abortion Protections
2022: Ted Budd Voted Against Codifying The Right To Receive Abortion Services And The Right For Medical Providers To Provide Abortion Services And Against Prohibiting Abortion Restrictions. In July 2022, according to Congressional Quarterly, Ted Budd voted against the Women’s Health Protection Act of 2022, which would “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 bill would specify that rights established by the bill may not be restricted by certain requirements or limitations related to abortion services, including prohibitions on abortion prior to fetal viability, or after fetal viability if a provider determines that continuation of a pregnancy would pose a risk to a patient's life or health; requirements that patients disclose reasons for seeking an abortion or make medically unnecessary in-person appointments; requirements that providers provide medically inaccurate information or perform specific medical tests or procedures in connection with the provision of abortion services; limitations on providers' ability to prescribe drugs based on good-faith medical judgment, provide services via telemedicine or provide immediate services when a delay would pose a risk to a patient's health; and requirements for facilities and personnel that would not apply to facilities providing medically comparable procedures. It would also prohibit requirements or limitations that are similar to those established by the bill or that impede access to abortion services and expressly or implicitly single out abortion services, providers or facilities.” The vote was on passage. The House passed the bill by a vote 219-210, thus the bill was sent to the Senate. [House Vote 360, 7/15/22; Congressional Quarterly, 7/15/22; Congressional Actions, H.R. 8296]
- The Bill Specified The Factors That Courts Could Consider When Determining Whether A Regulation Were To Limit Or Impede Access To Abortion And Required The Party Defending The Regulation To Prove That It Advances The Safety Of Abortion Or The Patient’s Health. According to Congressional Quarterly, “It would specify factors that courts may consider to determine whether a requirement or limitation impedes access to abortion services, including whether it interferes with providers' ability to provide services; poses a risk to patients' health; is likely to delay or deter patients in accessing services or necessitate in-person visits that would not otherwise be required; is likely to result in a decreased availability of services in a state or region; is likely to result in increased costs of providing or obtaining services; or imposes penalties that are not imposed on other health care providers for comparable conduct. It would require a party defending a requirement or limitation to establish that it significantly advances the safety of abortion services or patient health and that such goals cannot be advanced by a less restrictive alternative measure.” [Congressional Quarterly, 7/15/22]
- The Bill Authorized The Justice Department, Medical Providers, And Individuals And Entities To Sue In Federal Court Against Any Governmental Entity That Were To Implement Abortion Restrictions. According to Congressional Quarterly, “It would authorize the Justice Department, health care providers and private individuals and entities to bring a civil action in U.S. district court for injunctive relief against any state or government official charged with implementing or enforcing a requirement or limitation challenged as a violation of rights established by the bill. It would authorize district courts to award appropriate equitable relief, including temporary, preliminary or permanent injunctive relief, and to award costs of litigation to a prevailing plaintiff. It would require courts to ‘liberally construe’ provisions of the bill to effectuate its purposes.” [Congressional Quarterly, 7/15/22]
- H.R. 8296 Was An Identical Bill To The Abortion Protections Bill Passed In September 2021 By The House, H.R. 3755, But Adds Findings Over The Dobbs Case That Overturned Roe V. Wade. According to Congressional Quarterly, “The bill is substantively identical to HR 3755, which the House passed in September 2021, but adds findings related to the June 2022 Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization.” [Congressional Quarterly, 7/15/22]
- The Bill Was Another Attempt To Codify Roe V. Wade After The Senate Failed To Advance The First Version Of The Bill In May 2022. According to The Washington Post, “One bill, the Women’s Health Protection Act, would enshrine the protections of Roe v. Wade into law. The House already passed the bill last year, but it did not advance in a Senate vote in May. The House passed the bill, 219-210, prompting applause from Democrats in the chamber. All Republicans and Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-Tex.) voted against the measure.” [The Washington Post, 7/15/22]
- Republicans Falsely Mislabeled The Bill As The “Abortions On Demand Until Birth Act.” According to The Washington Post, “As further proof of their opposition to the measure, Republicans falsely renamed the legislation in their whip notice as the ‘Abortions on Demand until Birth Act’ — which is a misrepresentation of the bill — and repeated that claim on the House floor.” [The Washington Post, 7/15/22]
- The Bill Would Establish The Right For Medical Providers To Provide Abortion Services And Their Patients The Right To Receive Them And Invalidate State Restrictions That Were Implemented After The Reversal Of Roe V. Wade. According to The New York Times, “A second measure, a version of which passed the House last year, would explicitly give health care providers the right to provide abortion services and their patients the right to obtain them, invalidating a variety of state restrictions that were enacted in the aftermath of the Supreme Court’s decision reversing Roe v. Wade and ending the constitutional right to abortion. That second measure, the Women’s Health Protection Act, passed 219 to 210, also mainly along party lines, with one Democrat, Representative Henry Cuellar of Texas, voting with Republicans.” [New York Times, 7/15/22]
- The Bill Would Allow Abortions After Viability Only In Health- Or Life-Threatening Circumstances. According to The New York Times, “In reality, the Democratic bill allows abortions after viability only in circumstances when a doctor determines that the continuation of the pregnancy would pose a risk to the patient’s life or health.” [New York Times, 7/15/22]
¶ Budd Voted Against A Bill That Protected Interstate Travel For Abortion Services
2022: Ted Budd Voted Against Prohibiting Individuals Acting Under State Law From Restricting An Individual’s Access To Out-Of-State Abortion Services And Against Prohibiting The Restriction Of Interstate Movement Against Any FDA-Approved Abortion Drug. In July 2022, according to Congressional Quarterly, Ted Budd voted against the Ensuring Women’s Right to Reproductive Freedom Act, which would “prohibit individuals from interfering with patients' ability to access to abortion services in another state where the services are legal. Specifically, it would prohibit any person acting under color of state law from preventing, restricting or retaliating against health care providers' ability to provide abortion services that are legal in the provider's state to patients who do not reside in that state; a person's ability to assist in providing such services; or a person's ability to travel or assist another person traveling across state lines to obtain an abortion. It would also prohibit individuals from preventing, restricting or retaliating against the interstate movement of any drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the termination of a pregnancy.” The vote was on passage. The House passed the bill by a vote 223-205, thus the bill was sent to the Senate. [House Vote 362, 7/15/22; Congressional Quarterly, 7/15/22; Congressional Actions, H.R. 8297]
- The Bill Would Permit The U.S. Attorney General Or A Harmed Individual To Sue In Federal Court Against An Individual Who Violates The Bill. According to Congressional Quarterly, “It would allow the U.S. attorney general or a harmed individual to bring a civil action in U.S. district court for declaratory and injunctive relief against an individual who violates the prohibitions.” [Congressional Quarterly, 7/15/22]
- The Bill Would Reaffirm The Right For An Individual Seeking Abortion Services To Travel Across State Lines Without Restrictions. According to The Washington Post, “Another bill, the Ensuring Women’s Right to Reproductive Freedom Act, would reaffirm the right for someone seeking an abortion to travel freely across state lines. The House passed that measure, 223-205, with three Republicans — Adam Kinzinger (Ill.), Fred Upton (Mich.) and Brian Fitzpatrick (Pa.) — joining all Democrats in backing the bill.” [The Washington Post, 7/15/22]
- Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (D) From Texas: Prohibiting Travel Restrictions For Abortion Access Was Consistent With The Constitutional Right To Interstate Travel. According to The New York Times, “Representative Lizzie Fletcher, Democrat of Texas, said her bill prohibiting states from enacting or enforcing laws restricting travel to obtain an abortion was consistent with the constitutional right to interstate travel.” [New York Times, 7/15/22]
¶ Budd Voted Against Codifying Access To Contraceptives
2022: Ted Budd Voted Against Codifying The Right To Access Contraceptives And The Right For Health Care Providers To Provide Contraceptives To Their Patients. In July 2022, according to Congressional Quarterly, Ted Budd voted against the Right to Contraception Act, which would “establish that individuals have a statutory right to obtain contraceptives and health care providers have a right to provide contraceptives, contraception and related information. It would prohibit any limitation or infringement of these rights that impedes access to or singles out the provision or providers of contraceptives, contraception or related information. It would supersede any federal and state law that conflicts with its provisions.” The vote was on passage. The House passed the bill by a vote 228-195, thus the bill was sent to Senate. [House Vote 385, 7/21/22; Congressional Quarterly, 7/21/22; Congressional Actions, H.R. 8373]
- The Bill Would Permit The U.S. Attorney General Or A Harmed Individual To Sue In Federal Court Against Anyone Who Violates The Right To Contraception, And Health Care Providers Would Be Allowed To Sue On Behalf Of Themselves, Their Staff Or Patients. According to Congressional Quarterly, “It would allow the U.S. attorney general or a harmed individual to bring a civil action in U.S. district court for equitable relief against an individual who violates these provisions. It would allow health care providers to bring action on behalf of themselves, their staff or their patients.” [Congressional Quarterly, 7/21/22]
- The Bill Was A Resulted From The U.S. Supreme Court’s Overturn Of Roe V. Wade And Concerns That The Court May Revisit Same-Sex Marriage And The Right To Contraception. According to The New York Times, “House Democratic leaders opted to move forward with the bill after the Supreme Court’s decision overturning abortion rights raised worries about the prospect that the justices might revisit cases that affirmed same-sex marriage rights and the right to contraception. The debate in Congress thrust the issue into the midterm election campaign, where Democrats are eager to draw a distinction between their party’s support for L.G.B.T.Q. rights and opposition by many Republicans.” [New York Times, 7/19/22]
- The Bill Would Establish The Federal Right For Contraception Access And The Right For Medical Providers To Provide Contraceptives. According to Reuters, “The bill would create a federal right for people to access contraceptives and for doctors and pharmacists to provide them. Contraceptives are used by 88% of U.S. women of childbearing age who are not trying to get pregnant, according to the Guttmacher Institute, an abortion rights advocacy group.” [Reuters, 7/21/22]
- Although None Have Passed, Several State Legislatures Have Introduced Legislation To Restrict Contraceptive Access And 12 States Currently Permit Health Care Providers To Refuse To Prescribe Contraception. According to Reuters, “Some state legislatures have introduced bills to restrict access to contraceptives, though they have not passed. In addition, 12 states allow health providers to refuse contraception, according to the Guttmacher Institute.” [Reuters, 7/21/22]
- The Bill Would Protect Oral And Emergency Contraceptives, Intrauterine Devices And Condoms. According to The Hill, “Contraceptives protected under the legislation include oral and emergency medications, intrauterine devices and condoms.” [The Hill, 7/21/22]
¶ Budd Faced Criticism For Pushing For Protections For Crisis Pregnancy Center While Ignoring The Violence Faced By Abortion Providers
¶ Tillis And Budd Led A Letter To North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein Calling On The North Carolina Department Of Justice To Utilize The Freedom Of Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act Of 1994 To Protect North Carolina-based Crisis Pregnancy Centers From Alleged Attacks
Tillis And Budd Led A Letter To North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein Calling On The North Carolina Department Of Justice To Utilize The Freedom Of Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act Of 1994 To Protect North Carolina-based Crisis Pregnancy Centers From Alleged Attacks Following The Overturn Of Roe. According to Press Release from the offices of Sen. Thom Tillis and Rep. Ted Budd, “U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) and U.S. Representative Ted Budd (R-NC) led a letter to North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein on Friday (July 29) calling on the North Carolina Department of Justice to utilize the Freedom of Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act of 1994 to protect North Carolina-based Crisis Pregnancy Centers and bring the perpetrators of previous attacks to justice. ‘We were troubled to see several attacks on Crisis Pregnancy Centers across the country. We were especially troubled to learn of the attack on Mountain Area Pregnancy Services in Asheville. The attackers scrawled in red graffiti across the clinic ‘if abortions aren’t safe neither are you!’ Crisis Pregnancy Centers exist to give women support and resources during their pregnancy. These organizations provide critical counseling services, parenting classes, and vital supplies such as diapers and formula. This noble work makes the attacks and threats of violence against these organizations all the more disturbing and unacceptable.” [Press Release - Sen. Thom Tillis and Rep. Ted Budd, 7/31/22]
Tillis And Budd Said In Their Letter That The Attack On The Crisis Pregnancy Center Violated State And Federal Law Including The Freedom Of Clinic Entrances Act Of 1994 And Called On The State Attorney General To Use Every Resource Available To Protect Crisis Pregnancy Centers. According to Charlotte Observer, “Tillis and Budd said in their letter that the attack on the crisis pregnancy center violates state and federal law including The Freedom of Clinic Entrances Act of 1994. ‘The law empowers state attorney generals such as yourself with the authority to seek civil relief for conduct that violates the FACE Act,’ they wrote. ‘Considering the seriousness of these crimes, law enforcement cannot play favorites when it comes to pursuing justice.’ Tillis and Budd urged Stein to use every civil and criminal resource available to protect crisis pregnancy centers. The lawmakers requested an update from Stein no later than Aug. 15 to address what steps he has taken.” [Charlotte Observer, 8/1/22]
¶ Budd And Tillis Said That Crisis Pregnancy Centers Exist To Give Women Support And Resources During Pregnancy And Condoned Alleged Threats Of Violence Against The Organizations
In A Letter To The Attorney General, Released By The Lawmakers Friday, Budd And Tillis Said That Crisis Pregnancy Centers Exist To Give Women Support And Resources During Pregnancy And Condoned Alleged Threats Of Violence Against The Organizations. According to Charlotte Observer, “In a letter to the attorney general, released by the lawmakers Friday, Budd and Tillis said that crisis pregnancy centers exist to give women support and resources during pregnancy, including critical counseling services, parenting classes and vital supplies like diapers and formula. ‘This noble work makes the attacks and threats of violence against these organizations all the more disturbing and unacceptable,’ they wrote.” [Charlotte Observer, 8/1/22]
¶ The Charlotte Observer Editorial Board Criticized Budd For Failing To Stand Up For Abortion Providers Who Faced Threats Of Violence For Decades
Charlotte Observer Editorial Board Wrote That Sen. Thom Tillis And Rep. Ted Budd Recently Sent A Letter To North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein, Asking Stein To Protect Crisis Pregnancy Centers Across The State From The “Attacks” They Have Begun To Experience Since Roe V. Wade Was Overturned But Failed To Highlight That Abortion Providers Are Often Targets Of Violence Too. According to Charlotte Observer Editorial , “Sen. Thom Tillis and Rep. Ted Budd recently sent a letter to North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein, asking Stein to protect crisis pregnancy centers across the state from the ‘attacks’ they have begun to experience since Roe v. Wade was overturned […] Violence or threats of violence are against the law and never acceptable, regardless of who they come from, and Stein should indeed pursue the civil penalties the FACE Act of 1994 authorizes attorneys general to levy against those who vandalize clinics. But if North Carolina Republicans are upset by the vandalism of pro-life pregnancy centers, they should be equally critical when abortion providers are targeted.” [Charlotte Observer - Editorial , 8/6/22]
¶ Charlotte Observer Editorial Board: “People In North Carolina Cannot Access Services Provided By Abortion Clinics Without Fear Of Violence, And They Haven’t Been Able To For A Long Time”
Charlotte Observer Editorial Board: “People In North Carolina Cannot Access Services Provided By Abortion Clinics Without Fear Of Violence, And They Haven’t Been Able To For A Long Time.” According to Charlotte Observer Editorial, “People in North Carolina cannot access services provided by abortion clinics without fear of violence, and they haven’t been able to for a long time. Violence against abortion clinics is well-documented, dating back to the 1970s when abortion was first legalized nationwide. Abortion clinics across the country have been set on fire and bombed, and abortion providers are often the victims of physical assault, death threats and stalking.” [Charlotte Observer - Editorial , 8/6/22]
The Charlotte Observer Editorial Board Noted That “Anti-abortion Protesters Still Picket Outside Abortion Clinics, Sometimes With The Intent To Agitate, Intimidate And Harass Those Who Seek Care.” According to Charlotte Observer Editorial, “Anti-abortion protesters still picket outside abortion clinics, sometimes with the intent to agitate, intimidate and harass those who seek care. A Preferred Women’s Health Center in Charlotte sees hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of protesters in any given week.” [Charlotte Observer - Editorial , 8/6/22]
The Charlotte Observer Also Stated That “Hostility Toward Abortion Providers Also Has Grown In Recent Months, With The Anti-abortion Movement Perhaps Emboldened By The Supreme Court’s Decision And The Brazen Efforts Of Lawmakers That Validate Their Positions Through Extreme Rhetoric That Likens Abortion To Murder.” According to Charlotte Observer Editorial, “Though crisis pregnancy centers have seen an increase in vandalism since the Supreme Court’s decision, hostility toward abortion providers also has grown in recent months, with the anti-abortion movement perhaps emboldened by the Supreme Court’s decision and the brazen efforts of lawmakers that validate their positions through extreme rhetoric that likens abortion to murder.” [Charlotte Observer - Editorial , 8/6/22]
Editorial Board Stated That North Carolina Republicans Consistently Denied People Access To Critical Reproductive Health Care By Refusing To Expand Medicaid While Defunding Reproductive Health Facilities While Funneling Millions Into Crisis Pregnancy Centers. According to Charlotte Observer Editorial, “On top of that, North Carolina Republicans have consistently denied people access to critical reproductive health care by refusing to expand Medicaid while defunding reproductive health facilities that also provide abortions — all while funneling millions of dollars in the state budget to crisis pregnancy centers, the majority of which do not actually provide licensed medical care.” [Charlotte Observer - Editorial , 8/6/22]
¶ Charlotte Observer Editorial Board Asked “Where Have Republicans Been All This Time, While Abortion Clinics Were On The Receiving End Of This Violence? Where Are They Now, As It’s Still Happening?”
Charlotte Observer Editorial Board Asked “Where Have Republicans Been All This Time, While Abortion Clinics Were On The Receiving End Of This Violence? Where Are They Now, As It’s Still Happening?” According to Charlotte Observer Editorial, “The GOP is complaining that Democrats aren’t speaking out against the sudden increase in attacks on crisis pregnancy centers, but there’s some obvious hypocrisy to be found there. Where have Republicans been all this time, while abortion clinics were on the receiving end of this violence? Where are they now, as it’s still happening? Tillis and Budd wrote that ‘law enforcement cannot play favorites when it comes to pursuing justice.’ We agree, but politicians shouldn’t play favorites, either.” [Charlotte Observer - Editorial , 8/6/22]
¶ Budd Cosponsored Two Pieces Of Legislation That Could Have “create[d] A Pathway” To Prosecute Doctors Who Perform Abortions
The Ad Claimed That Budd “Sponsored Legislation That Could Criminalize Abortion For Women And Put North Carolina Doctors In Jail.” According to CBS 17, “THE CLAIM: The ad says Budd ‘sponsored legislation that could criminalize abortion for women and put North Carolina doctors in jail.’” [CBS 17, 8/15/22]
- Budd Was One Of 29 Cosponsors Of H.R. 877, The Sanctity Of Human Life Act, Which Sought To Establish That Life Begins At Fertilization Or Cloning, And That At That Time “Every Human Being Shall Have All The Legal And Constitutional Attributes And Privileges Of Personhood.” According to CBS 17, “The ad cites two bills that were introduced February 2021, both of which have to do with establishing when a human life begins from a legal perspective. Budd was one of 29 cosponsors of H.R. 877, the Sanctity of Human Life Act, which would establish that life begins at fertilization or cloning, and that at that time ‘every human being shall have all the legal and constitutional attributes and privileges of personhood.’” [CBS 17, 8/15/22]
- Budd Joined 165 Other Cosponsors Of H.R. 1011, The Life At Conception Act, Which Would Declare The Right To Life Guaranteed By The Constitution As Being “Vested In Each Human Being.” According to CBS 17, “He joined 165 other cosponsors of H.R. 1011, the Life at Conception Act, which would declare the right to life guaranteed by the Constitution as being ‘vested in each human being.’” [CBS 17, 8/15/22]
H.R 1011, The Life Begins At Conception Act, Included A Line That Stated “Nothing In This Act Shall Be Construed To Authorize The Prosecution Of Any Woman For The Death Of Her Unborn Child,” Which Seemingly Refuted The Ad’s Claim. According to CBS 17, “That bill contains a line that seemingly refutes one of the claims in the ad, saying that ‘nothing in this act shall be construed to authorize the prosecution of any woman for the death of her unborn child.’ Shawn Fields, an assistant professor of law at Campbell, says that part of the ad is ‘misleading, because it sounds like… the proposed bill would be designed to prosecute women for terminating their own pregnancy. ‘And that’s clearly not what the bill is proposed to do,’ he added. ‘It says the exact opposite.’” [CBS 17, 8/15/22]
However, Both Bills May “Create A Pathway” To Prosecute A Doctor Who Performs An Abortion Because Of The Way It Defines When Human Life Begins. According to CBS 17, “Instead, what Fields says those bills could do is ‘create a pathway’ to prosecute a doctor who performs an abortion because of the way it defines when human life begins. ‘And, of course, we know it’s a crime to deliberately end any human life,’ Fields said. ‘So if a doctor assists a woman in terminating the pregnancy, that doctor has intentionally under the language of that bill ended the human life, which would be a criminal offense.’ He says that conceivably could be extended to ‘anyone who aids or abets the woman in terminating her pregnancy. ‘While the text of the bill itself specifically says the woman will not be prosecuted for terminating her own pregnancy,’ Fields said, ‘anyone else is fair game. That includes doctors, that includes people who provide logistical or financial support.’” [CBS 17, 8/15/22]
¶ Budd Faced Ads Attacking His Anti-Choice Stance
¶ Senate Majority PAC Launched A New Ad Attacking Budd On His Anti-Choice Stance
Senate Majority PAC Launched A New Ad Attacking Budd On His Anti-Choice Stance. According to Meet The Press – Blog, “A Democratic super PAC is launching a new TV ad in North Carolina’s Senate race Tuesday, targeting GOP Rep. Ted Budd on abortion. Senate Majority PAC’s new ad is the group’s first spot that directly attacks Budd. The group previously launched two TV ads defending Democrat Cheri Beasley against GOP attacks on her judicial record. ‘Budd wants abortion outlawed, with no exceptions for rape or incest,’ a narrator says in the new ad, shared first with NBC News.” [Meet The Press – Blog, 8/2/22]
The Senate Majority PAC Ad Referenced An Interview From Earlier In The Campaign In Which Budd Suggested He Would Not Support Exceptions For Rape Or Incest To An Abortion Ban. According to Meet The Press – Blog, “The ad is referencing an interview earlier in the campaign in which Budd suggested he would not support such exceptions to abortion bans. ‘It’s a tragedy when somebody finds themselves there, and I want to say, ‘Why would you want to add a second tragedy to an already very tough situation?’’ Budd told Nexstar Media Group in May. ‘I don’t condemn anybody that’s ever been through that, but I want to say let’s not add more tragedy to a very tough situation.’” [Meet The Press – Blog, 8/2/22]
Senate Majority PAC Planned To Spend More Than $700,000 On The Tv Ad Which Was Aired In The Charlotte Media Market. According to Meet The Press – Blog, “The ad then directs viewers to a website detailing Budd’s views on the issue. The group is spending more than $700,000 on the TV ad, which will air in the Charlotte media market.” [Meet The Press – Blog, 8/2/22]
¶ Planned Parenthood Planned To Spend $50 Million To Support Candidate Who Supported Abortion Rights, Including Budd’s Democratic Opponent, Cheri Beasley
Planned Parenthood Planned To Spend $50 Million To Support Candidate Who Supported Abortion Rights, Including Budd’s Democratic Opponent, Cheri Beasley. According to Fox 8, “Planned Parenthood, the family planning organization often in the maelstrom of the debate about abortion rights, is planning to drop some serious cash in North Carolina’s midterm election. Planned Parenthood announced that it would spend $50 million to support candidates who advocate for continuing abortion rights, which is projected to be a key motivator for voters in November, citing the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade and return the matter to states to decide. And in a follow-up release, Planned Parenthood said that North Carolina – and specifically U.S. Senate candidate Cheri Beasley – would be a priority in that spending.” [Fox 8, 8/17/22]