On abortion, Emmer changes the subject
An interesting moment at the gubernatorial debate in Duluth today. A woman who identified herself as Elizabeth asked a question about abortion: "I would like to ask these gentlemen what their philosophy is on abortion and specifically what your policy is on taxpayer funded abortion in Minnesota?"
The candidates' responses in order:
Tom Horner-- "I think we all agree we ought to reduce abortions. And so I've laid out a very specific plan that says I think we get to reducing abortions by making sure that all women have access to good health care, including access to contraceptives. I think we get there by making sure that we have responsible sex education in the schools. It was disappointing that Gov. Pawlenty turned down the federal grant that would have expanded good, responsible, including abstinence-based sex education in the schools. And I think we make an investment in adoption services. That's what a governor can do to make good public policy to achieve the goal that I think most Minnesotans agree on; reduce the number of abortions."
Tom Emmer-- "You know what, I appreciate the question, and, you know, Jacquie and I, we believe in life. But I've got to tell you, this election; it has to be about what is hurting the state of Minnesota--the loss of jobs. It's got to be, the economics are front and center. These are important issues, no doubt, but we've got to start talking about why Minnesota is not able to do the things it might want to do. We've got to talk about reforming our education system. We've got to talk about reforming our government delivery systems. More importantly, we've got to talk about growing jobs again in the state of Minnesota. That should be job number one for the next governor of this state, and those issues will be handled by the Legislature."
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Mark Dayton--"I think the decision is between a woman and her doctor and her God. And I believe abortion should be safe, legal and rare."
On his website Emmer is quite clear where he stands on the abortion issue:
As a husband of 24 years and the father to seven children, nothing is more important to me than family. I strongly believe in the sanctity of human life, from conception to natural death. As a legislator, I have voted 100% pro-life and introduced numerous bills and amendments to protect the unborn. As Governor, I will continue to support the rights of the unborn, the elderly and the infirm.
By the way, if you missed the debate here it is: