Reply #6: Bush v Kerry on reproductive rights

[Czolgosz]

I have friend who was participating on a Bush v Kerry debate at her Catholic middle school. The Bush argument was Bush is pro-life, Kerry is pro-abortion -- end of question. Her response was clever:

1. Show me where Bush has ever said he would overrule Roe v. Wade. He hasn't ever said it.

2. Show me where Kerry has ever said he favors abortion. He hasn't ever said it.

3. So what's the biggest difference between the two when you really look at their positions? They both agree that first and second trimester abortions should be rare but should remain legal. Yet Bush wants to outlaw third trimester abortions with no exception for the mother's health or safety. Whereas Kerry wants to outlaw third trimester abortions except he wants an exception for the mother's health or safety.

4. Show me where the Bible or the Church says Bush's position is right but Kerry's position is wrong? They don't. Neither candidate follows a strict Catholic position on abortion, but only Kerry shows concern for both the mother and her unborn child.

I don't agree with all of this, but I thought this was a pretty fine way for a young girl addressing a Catholic school class to address the issue. It might be an approach to use with pro-life advocates who are having trouble voting for Bush.