Senate Republicans under the pressing of South Carolina’s Lindsey Graham are using the one-year anniversary of the Kermit Gosnell abortion atrocity to press for new federal bans on the procedure, post 20 weeks.
Mr. Graham is rallying some of his fellow senators to speak up for a bill — and so far, he’s got 41 on board. A companion measure has already passed through the House.
On a different note, Sen. Richard Blumenthal has brought forth a separate abortion-related measure that bans states from adding extra regulations and mandates to facilities that provide the procedure, Politico reported.
“We’re going to talk about the 20-week pain capable bill, and we’re going to ask Sen. Reid to allow us to have a vote,” Mr. Graham told Politico. “Sen. Blumenthal has a bill that’s really a top priority of the pro-choice community. So let’s have a vote on both. I think the topic’s worthy of debate. I know he’s very sincere, and I’m very sincere.”
Mr. Graham actually introduced his bill months ago, but it sort of fell under the radar. Now, he’s bringing it back into the limelight, given the high-profile nature of the Gosnell abortion trial that hits its one-year anniversary on May 13.
Gosnell, a Philadelphia doctor, was sentenced to life in prison on murder charges for his role while running an abortion clinic.
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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