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Social Issues
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While America’s attention is focused squarely on economic and unemployment concerns, we cannot afford to overlook other important issues.
Abortion
I believe we must protect life. Simply put, I will support policies that protect the sanctity of life.
I have co-sponsored several pieces of legislation aimed at protecting the life of the unborn. I reaffirm my strong belief that taxpayers should not be on the hook for funding abortions. Furthermore, I object to the use of foreign aid dollars to fund abortions in other countries. As such, I object to President Obama’s decision to rescind the "Mexico City Policy".
I am a proud co-sponsor of H.R. 217, the “Title X Abortion Provider Prohibition Act” which would end taxpayer funding of America’s largest abortion provider, Planned Parenthood. Additionally, I have co-sponsored H.R. 3, the “No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act” and H.R. 358, the “Protect Life Act” which would both end taxpayers funding of abortions altogether.
Furthermore, I have co-sponsored legislation that would protect the sanctity of life (H.R. 212 and H.R. 374) and legislation that would provide conscience protections to health care entities forced to provide or participate in abortions (H.R. 361). I believe life is a gift and will continue to support legislation that protects the sanctity of life.
I’m honored that the National Right to Life organization has given me a 100% pro-life rating.
Same-sex Marriage and the Defense of Marriage Act
I am a strong proponent of marriage. On a state level, I believe the definition of marriage should be left to the discretion of states. I wholeheartedly support Utah’s approach defining marriage through a state constitutional amendment.
On the federal level, I support the Defense of Marriage Act. I oppose the Obama Administration’s decision to trample the rights of states by refusing to defend the Defense of Marriage Act in court. Quite frankly, the Department of Justice should not shirk its responsibility to defend the law of the land. Due to this fact, I am supportive of the House of Representatives’ efforts, under the direction of Speaker of the House John Boehner, to defend this law. The United States Congress has a constitutional prerogative to affirm its intent and defend its actions when laws that have been duly enacted are challenged in court.