National Institute for Reproductive Health Statement on Confirmation of Brett Kavanaugh

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 6, 2018
Contact: Stephanie Reichin
E: [email protected]
C: 617.549.3745

New York – The National Institute for Reproductive Health (NIRH) released the following statement today regarding the Senate’s vote to confirm Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court:

“NIRH condemns all votes to confirm Brett Kavanaugh as Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States. His judicial record, his belligerence, and multiple allegations of sexual assault against him make it clear that he is entirely unfit to make decisions affecting the lives of millions for generations to come.

The confirmation of Brett Kavanaugh is a truly disturbing moment in our nation’s history. Senator McConnell and his ilk insisted on a rushed, deeply flawed and highly partisan confirmation process, amplifying their message: they don’t trust women to tell their own stories, and insist on confirming a Supreme Court Justice who doesn’t trust women to make their own decisions about their reproductive lives.

Justice Brett Kavanaugh’s confirmed seat shifts the balance of our nation’s highest court firmly away from reproductive rights, forcing all of us to confront the very real possibility that abortion access will soon be systematically dismantled – if not outright eliminated.

In spite of historic action opposing a Supreme Court nominee, many elected representatives did anything but represent their constituents, and voted to confirm him, almost exactly down party lines.

It’s never been more critical to take a long, hard look at our elected officials. Protecting access to abortion – which is to say, trusting women to make their own decisions – will now rise or fall even more within state legislatures. Supporting survivors of sexual assault – like Dr. Christine Blasey Ford, who literally risked her life to bravely tell her personal story – is the absolute least we deserve from those elected to represent us.

NIRH is committed to shoring up protections for abortion access at the state and local level, and will continue to work steadfastly with partners and advocates across the country to move proactive policy. Electing candidates – especially at the state and local levels – who trust women to tell their stories and decide what is best for themselves and their families is the single most important action we can take in the coming weeks and beyond to ensure that women have the autonomy and dignity they deserve.”

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