Today, we’re publishing candidates’ responses to the following question:
Kansas voters in 2022 rejected the “Value Them Both” amendment that, if enacted, would have declared that the state constitution does not include a right to abortion. In the two legislative sessions since, lawmakers have tried to pass new restrictions on abortion, some of which have been blocked by judicial rulings. Are you satisfied with the current laws and restrictions on abortion in Kansas? Do you think access should be expanded in any way? Do you support new restrictions on abortion? And if so, what kind?
Below are the answers the Post received from candidates on the issue:
District 8
Cindy Holscher (Democratic, incumbent)
Despite voters overwhelmingly (apprx. 70% in JoCo) indicating they support access to reproductive healthcare with the 2020 amendment vote, less than six months later, state legislators introduced over 20 bills to erode reproductive healthcare. Kansas already has some of the most restrictive laws regarding abortion procedures (regarding time frame, paperwork that must be completed, etc.).
It is imperative that voters make the connection between the fact that the state legislature is the body that keeps assaulting rights. The abortion amendment was the result of work of MAGA extremists in the state House and Senate. Additionally, every republican (and there’s a supermajority) voted in favor of the amendment with NO EXCEPTIONS for rape, incest or the health of the mother – that’s an extreme position. Their actions indicate they are working to position themselves to bring forward another amendment.
When someone asks me if abortion on the ballot this year, my response is a resounding YES; abortion is on the ballot every election.
Beneé Hudson (Republican)
Legislation on reporting and tax credits for pregnancy centers has passed in the last two years. Helping mothers, their children, and expectant mothers is not restricting abortion.
The laws overturned by the court were passed prior to the 2022 “Value Them Both” amendment attempt. As noted in the question, Kansas voters in 2022 have spoken. I think it’s time to set aside the deeply entrenched talking points on this issue.
I speak with my heart. I care about the lives of unborn children. I care about the lives of mothers and of fathers. I care about the lives of children living in poverty. I care about the lives of the elderly and the lives of the sick. I care that all of these lives are able to receive necessary medical care in a safe environment. I think this is an issue of the heart, that is decided at the individual level by people every single day, especially in our state. My goal is to support pregnant women with knowledge and options.
