BREAKING: Anti-Abortion Extremist Todd Blanche “Absolutely” Commits to Weaponizing Department of Justice to Ban Medication Abortion
Blanche confirms plans to rip access to care from more than 64.5 million people
WASHINGTON, DC –– Today, during a confirmation hearing before the U.S. Senate, the Trump Administration's nominee to serve as Attorney General, Todd Blanche, pledged to weaponize the Department of Justice to ban access to medication abortion through the mail. Medication abortion is safe and effective and was approved by the FDA more than 25 years ago. Blanche’s vow comes amid mounting pressure from extremist groups and anti-abortion lawmakers eager to ban medication abortion nationwide — even in states where it is currently legally protected.
Abortion medication is currently used in nearly two-thirds of abortions across the country; restricting access to medication abortion could eliminate care for 64.5 million people.In May, the U.S. Supreme Court temporarily paused the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals’ May 1 ruling that prohibited patients from receiving abortion medication by mail or at a pharmacy after receiving care through telemedicine. While medication abortion remains available, extremists continue to plot vicious new ways to strip access to care. Meanwhile, patients and providers are forced to navigate a complex and ever-changing legal landscape.
In response to today’s hearing and Blanche’s nomination, Veronica Ingham, Managing Director for Free & Just released the following statement:
“Todd Blanche just said the quiet part out loud: The Trump administration plans to weaponize federal agencies to ban abortion nationwide – even in states where it’s currently protected. Medication abortion is safe and effective, and these attacks are motivated solely by politics not science. The last thing Americans want or need is an Attorney General who will roll back our rights even further.”
If you are interested in speaking with patients, physicians, or advocates about their experience receiving medication abortion care, please contact kelly@freeandjust.us.
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Free & Just is fighting to stop attacks on reproductive freedom and rights. We’re working with people across the country to share real stories to show the devastating consequences of attacks on our reproductive freedom. We all deserve the right to control our bodies and lives. That’s why we’re sharing our stories, raising our voices, and fighting for our future.