Letter on abortion

To whom it may concern:

A recent One-on-One interview with the Executive Director of “Right to Life” in North Dakota was published and I’d like to point out some errors and inaccuracies with the statements made in the interview. I am fully aware that abortion and Roe v Wade are controversial topics so I find it best to use more respectful and humane language than was used in the interview, at least in regard to the pro choice side of the debate.

Too often, people who advocate for medical liberty in the case of abortion are characterized as “child murderers”, “baby killers”, or some other hateful and inflammatory language. When someone makes an argument that is so extreme that to oppose it is seen as defending child murder, then that person is making it impossible to talk to. Call it what it is and we can talk about that. But to claim that abortions are murdering a child is scientifically wrong and morally wrong as well. That type of language will and has incited unstable people to horrific acts.

The claim that the trigger law in North Dakota will make this state “abortion free” is wrong. The 2007 North Dakota “abortion trigger” law states that abortion would be illegal except in cases of incest, rape, or the life of the mother is at risk.

For many years, it seemed that the topic of abortion would take place in those circumstances within which it had a direct impact: the pregnant woman, possibly their partner, and their healthcare provider. They would be able to discuss, learn, and may even make a difficult decision regarding their own health. It wasn’t anyone else’s business, truly, what that person chose to do with their own body. In the case of abortion law, I am much more conservative and choose to keep the status quo; the law as it is which allows a person the freedom to make difficult decisions regarding their own life instead of an outside entity dictating what you can or can’t do to your own body.

Finally, as a Democratic-NPL candidate for North Dakota House this year, I want to point out some errors that the Director of “right to life” made in terms of the Democratic party’s official stance on abortion. Access to reproductive health, safe abortions, and preventative care are all important issues to the Democratic party and to people in general. However, there is more than just one issue for the Democratic party. We also believe in protecting and promoting maternal health, as well as prescription drug price controls and affordable health care for all, just to name a few. If a person is to bring a new life into the world, then that person should have access to quality health care, safe and healthy neighborhoods and schools, and an income to take care of their family in any and all circumstances.

Sincerely,

Joey Nesdahl, Democratic-NPL House candidate, District 3