Vancouver resident Ann Makar shares a recent interaction with Congresswoman Marie Gluesenkamp Perez

Editor’s note: Opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are those of the author alone and do not reflect the editorial position of ClarkCountyToday.com

I sent this message through Marie Gluesenkamp Perez’ website, requesting that she support the defunding of Planned Parenthood: 

“The federal government has no reason to fund abortion providers. There are thousands of care centers for women, including many that charge NO MONEY to the girls and women they serve. Many of these centers are run by donors and volunteers. Why should our federal tax dollars be sent to Planned Parenthood, which also receives tax money from state, county, and local sources?”

She responded: “Growing up, my dad was the pastor of a small evangelical church, and as a child, I attended pro-life rallies with my mom. I have deep respect for those who see the gift of life as the beautiful gift it is. But as a mom now, I know pregnancy is informed by highly specific, personal circumstances, and when and how and which pregnancies are nurtured is not a choice that can be made by policy-wonks who’ve never heard of preeclampsia or placenta previa. 

“I understand that we won’t see eye to eye on every issue, but I want you to know that I take very seriously my responsibility to represent every member of our community and be an independent voice for Washington’s Third Congressional District. Please [know] I will keep your input in mind if legislation related to this issue comes to a vote before the House.”

While I appreciate the tone of her reply, Marie sadly fails to recognize the sanctity of human life from conception to natural death.

Ann Makar
Vancouver

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