WASHINGTON, DC – Energy and Commerce Committee Republican Leader Greg Walden (R-OR) remarks at a Health Subcommittee hearing titled, “Protecting Women’s Access to Reproductive Health Care.”
As Prepared for Delivery
Thank you, Madame Chair. During the State of the Union address, President Trump welcomed and spoke about Ellie Schneider, a little girl who was delivered at just 21 weeks’ gestation. The President called for policies to protect the unborn after fetal viability. Following the State of the Union, the Senate Judiciary held a hearing on Medical Care for Children Born Alive. Instead of considering these policies, we are regrettably convened here today to discuss yet another, deceptively titled, partisan bill that has no chance of being considered by the Senate nor signed into law.
The issue of abortion is a very sensitive one. It is a painful topic for the women and men who for whatever reason find themselves facing the dilemma of whether or not to terminate a pregnancy, and in turn, a human life. Abortion is one of the most polarizing subjects in American political discourse, but even many people that consider themselves pro-choice believe some restrictions are appropriate. 7 in 10 Americans support substantial restrictions on abortion after three months of pregnancy. Even nearly half of those who identify as pro-choice support restrictions on late-term abortions. Indeed, fewer than four in 10 Democrats support abortion at any time and for any reason.
Which is why I am so concerned that we are considering a bill so sweeping and out of sync with the views of a majority of Americans. A bill that seeks to strip away even the most minimal protections for women and their unborn children, at any stage of prenatal development. Even the original Roe v. Wade ruling never envisioned the extreme positions reflected in this bill. By overturning nearly ALL federal and state limitations on abortion, the deceptively named Women's Health Protection Act would require the provision of abortions on demand, at any stage of pregnancy, regardless of any compelling interest in the welfare of the patient, the protection of human life, or the conscience of the health practitioner.
I oppose this bill for Oregonians like Elizabeth Gillette, who told me about her heartbreaking experience of getting an abortion in 2011. In her letter, which I would like to submit for the record, Elizabeth states that “on demand abortions are not putting the safety of the woman as the highest priority. Because chemical abortion is a procedure that encompasses risks, both physical and emotional, it should not be thought of as a routine procedure. We need to protect the health of women. It is my deepest hope that no woman would have to suffer as I did.” And with that I would like to yield my remaining two minutes to the gentlelady from Washington.

“In America, we believe in the majesty of freedom and the dignity of the individual.” – President Donald J. Trump

DEFENDING RELIGIOUS LIBERTY: President Donald J. Trump is a steadfast advocate for religious liberty.

President Trump is committed to protecting the liberty and freedom of our religious communities, organizations, and students.
The Trump Administration issued new guidance to protect religious liberty and expression in public schools.
- The Administration’s action will help protect each student’s constitutional right to pray.
The Trump Administration took crucial action to support and defend Jewish students who face anti-Semitism on college campuses.
President
Trump reversed the Obama-era policy that prevented the government from
providing disaster relief to religious organizations.
The
President signed an Executive Order establishing the Faith and
Opportunity Initiative, which recognizes and promotes the essential
contributions of faith-based organizations.

PROTECTING INNOCENT LIFE: President Trump is the most fearless pro-life president in American history.

Since his first day in office, President Trump has taken historic action to protect the sanctity of every American life.
President Trump has urged Congress to pass legislation banning the horrendous practice of late-term abortion.
Last year, President Trump took action to end Federal research using fetal tissue from abortions.
Shortly
after taking office, President Trump issued a memorandum reinstating
and expanding the Mexico City Policy, banning funding to organizations
that provide abortion overseas.
The Trump Administration issued a rule preventing Title X family planning funds from supporting the abortion industry.
President Trump became the first sitting president to address the annual March for Life rally.

STANDING UP FOR AMERICANS’
CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS: President Trump is a strong champion and defender
of Americans’ First and Second Amendment rights.

President
Trump signed an Executive Order promoting free speech and inquiry at
colleges and universities receiving Federal research or education
grants.
President
Trump held the first ever Presidential Social Media Summit to celebrate
and promote freedom of speech on social media platforms.
The President has made clear that he will always stand up for Americans’ Second Amendment rights to keep and bear arms.