Team, 

With the Supreme Court’s recent decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, Michigan’s 1931 state law, based on a 1846 ban, is poised to snap back into effect, making abortion effectively illegal in our state. The law was temporarily blocked by a judge for now, but some of our hospitals have already stopped providing abortions in anticipation of a judge ending the temporary stay. 

The 1931 law outlaws abortion for rape, incest, or pretty much any other reason. It also punishes women and doctors – both of which could be thrown in jail for up to 4 years for seeking or providing an abortion.  

Elissa respects that people have differing, strong opinions on abortion, and that there are legitimate debates to be had over where the line is drawn. But for Elissa, this is a matter of personal freedom: her belief is that women should have the freedom to make this decision themselves. That women, in consultation with their doctors, should be trusted to draw the line – not the government.

On the other hand, Elissa’s opponent is vocally on the record as *completely* anti-choice. He frequently brags about his extreme views, explicitly saying he is ‘100% Pro-Life – No Exceptions.’

No exceptions. Even in cases of rape or incest. And even if the life of the mother is in immediate danger. 

What’s more, in 2019 he led legislation to further codify felony charges for doctors who perform abortions, with a penalty of to up to two years in prison and a $50,000 fine. And, he’s made it clear that he’s not going to back down from these extreme views, stating ‘I’m not going to shy away from it because I know I’m right. And I take it very seriously.’

It's an extreme position even for a state on the cusp of criminalizing most abortions and it’s out of step with the vast majority of Michiganders. 

This is one of the most competitive races in the country, and the contrast between Elissa and her opponent couldn’t be clearer on this issue. Elissa believes that women have different circumstances and should get a say in what happens to them and their health. Her opponent, who fashions himself a fighter for personal freedoms, seems to have no problem taking away the freedom to choose for all Michigan women. Now, more than ever, we must ensure that candidates are elected up and down the ballot that are willing to preserve this fundamental aspect of women’s freedom.