Planned Parenthood | Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

April 28, 2009 10:59:00

 

 

by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

The anti-choicers are politicizing health care (again) in their active opposition of Governor Kathleen Sebelius as Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS).


Sebelius, a health policy expert, popular governor, and proponent for increased access to affordable health care, is also a strong supporter of women's reproductive rights making her a prime target for anti-choice attacks.

via Kay Steiger, rhrealitycheck

Last week, the Family Research Council, an anti-choice lobbying group, raised a stink about Sebelius's purported "ties" to Dr. George Tiller, one of Kansas' few late-term abortion providers. Last month, Tiller was acquitted of 19 counts of misdemeanors brought against him. But FRC, and now Senate Republicans, are objecting to Sebelius based on donations Tiller made to a 2002 political PAC that supported Sebelius in the primary for governor.

Despite bipartisan support and an impressive resume, many conservatives have been trying to stall and obstruct her confirmation.   The delay in Sebelius's confirmation is taking a toll on our ability to address current and future public health issues. Jeff Levi of Trust for America's Health explains:

Via NPR

Soon, however, HHS will need its political appointees in place for tasks such as asking Congress for more money. "We're still $870 million short with the original estimate for what would be needed to build our research and development capacity for pandemic flu," said Levi. "We have not given money to state and local health departments since fiscal year 2006 to support their pandemic preparedness. We're going to need to replenish the stockpile for anti-flu drugs. We need to build our supply of masks and respirators."  

Today, Sebelius is expected to be confirmed- and not a moment too soon.  We need a Secretary of HHS to hit the ground running to address the myriad public health issues we are currently facing. During this economic downturn as more and more people are losing their health care, it's vital we address health care reform immediately. After 8 years of neglect, it's time we have a strong advocate for the health of women and families as we reform our health care system.

Please urge your Senator to support the confirmation of Governor Sebelius.

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