When it comes to rape can we be chivalrous?
Jun 14, 2013, 12:00 PM | Updated: 12:00 pm
Arizona Congressman Trent Franks said his remarks were taken out of context.
That’s the fallback phrase, you know. The escape hatch that public officials in both parties are using more and more for saying stupid things that will get them in trouble.
Rep. Franks on Wednesday chose to take his anti-abortion position a step too far when he added gynecology to his many specialties. While dismissing the need to give rape victims access to abortions after 20 weeks, Franks was quoted as saying, “The incidence of pregnancy resulting from rape is very low.”
Really Dr. Franks? And where did you get that information? The Boys Guide to Forced Fertility?
Actual medical statistics dispute his conclusion. And, predictably, Franks attempted damage control by clarifying — that is changing — his original quote.
Should you think I’m being partisan in my criticism, Massachusetts Republican Gabriel Gomez called the statement moronic.
Hey, here’s an idea! When it comes to opinions about rape, about incest and abortion issues, could we all be chivalrous and listen to ladies first?
I’m Pat McMahon.
