Dear John, ​

Last night, we watched the second Republican presidential debate. Unlike the first debate, pro-life issues mostly took a back seat. Only Florida governor Ron DeSantis and former New Hampshire governor Chris Christie answered a question about abortion. DeSantis and Christie were asked how they would win over pro-choice voters in toss-up states. Here’s what they said:

• Ron DeSantis rejected the idea that pro-lifers are to blame for midterm defeats. He said we should stand for our belief that every person has purpose and worth, saying, “We’re better off when everybody counts.” DeSantis also called for holding the Democrats accountable for their extremism, supporting abortion all the way up until the moment of birth.

• Chris Christie cited his record of vetoing Planned Parenthood funding 14 times in 8 years as governor. He continued to say that he believes in life but also believes in states' rights, claiming that Roe v. Wade was overturned to return the issue to the states. He then said we need a leader who can talk to people and make them understand that if you’re pro-life, you have to be pro-life for the entire life—not just the 9 months in the womb.

We will keep you updated as this election cycle moves forward at both the national and local levels. ​​​​​​

Because everyone deserves an advocate,

Sharolyn Smith
Political Director