Pro-Life Groups Urge Republican Senators to Defund Planned Parenthood
Major pro-life organizations recently sent a letter to Republican senators, urging them to pass legislation that would cut funding to Planned Parenthood before existing defunding measures expire on July 4, which coincides with the nation’s 250th anniversary.
The letter from Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America was sent following the passage of a second reconciliation bill that did not include a defunding measure. Republicans are reportedly preparing for another settlement bill.
Marjorie Dannenfelser, the president of SBA Pro-Life America, expressed gratitude in the letter, stating, “Last Independence Day, you helped accomplish something historic: a one-year suspension of federal Medicaid funding for large-scale abortion operations, a first of its kind.” She argued that taxpayers shouldn’t finance organizations that exploit women and unborn children while promoting political interests.
She cautioned that without Congressional action, the current defunding provision would expire in just 24 days, right in time for America’s birthday. Dannenfelser emphasized the need for Congress to focus on a new settlement bill that would prevent abortion providers from receiving taxpayer money.
Dannenfelser also referenced the death of 18-year-old Lexi Arguello in Colorado, highlighting a report by Operation Rescue. According to the report, Arguello died due to severe complications from a second-trimester abortion. The organization claims Planned Parenthood was negligent in handling her case.
Additionally, Dannenfelser pointed out that Planned Parenthood performed 434,450 abortions in one year while receiving $832 million in government funding—an increase from the previous year. She noted that despite the Hyde Amendment, which prohibits federal funding for most abortions, pro-life advocates feel taxpayer money should not be used to support organizations that terminate unborn lives.
“Women need more comprehensive care, and there are better options available,” she remarked, citing that numerous community health centers provide vital health services compared to Planned Parenthood.
A recent poll indicated that 75 percent of Republican primary voters back the idea of defunding Planned Parenthood. Dannenfelser urged Congress to act quickly to protect unborn children and their mothers.
This letter comes after Dannenfelser sent a similar appeal to House Republicans last week, reinforcing the message against supporting the abortion industry.
She concluded her statement by urging allied senators and representatives to take action in honor of America’s 250th anniversary, emphasizing the need for decisive steps against federal funding for abortions.
