Rep. Bilbray Refuses to Meet With Pro-Choice Constituents
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 26, 2006
Rep. Bilbray Refuses to Meet With Pro-Choice Constituents
Questions remain unanswered about his views on commonsense ways to prevent unintended pregnancies to help reduce the need for abortion
SAN DIEGO, California – Unlike 35 of his colleagues in the state’s congressional delegation, Rep. Brian Bilbray (R-50) recently refused to meet with constituents advocating for federal legislation aimed at preventing unintended pregnancies and reducing the need for abortion.
As part of NARAL Pro-Choice California’s third annual statewide lobby day, activists met with pro-choice lawmakers—and even some anti-choice legislators who disagree with their pro-choice constituents’ views, including Reps. Wally Herger (R-02) and Ken Calvert (R-44).
Bilbray, the newest member of the California delegation, has been "unavailable," according to his staff, to meet in person with his constituents.
"We were shocked that, only months after winning a hotly contested race for Congress, Mr. Bilbray won’t take time to meet with voters in his district," said Amy Everitt, State Director of NARAL Pro-Choice California. "Californians are tired of the divisive attacks on a woman’s right to choose in Congress. We want lawmakers who are serious about protecting the fundamental values of freedom, privacy, and personal responsibility. We are pleased that so many of our delegation will at least meet with their constituents to discuss commonsense ways to prevent unintended pregnancies and reduce the need for abortion."
Everitt continued, "Even at the federal level, some of Bilbray’s colleagues who disagree with us on abortion, such as Reps. Wally Herger and Ken Calvert, agreed to meet with their constituents. Since he won’t talk to his constituents, perhaps Congressman Bilbray can tell the press about where he stands on improving women’s access to birth control. This shouldn’t be a controversial issue, but Rep. Bilbray has made it one."
Activists across the state have met anti-choice legislators including Reps. Wally Herger (R-02), Ken Calvert (R-44), John Campbell (R-48), Duncan Hunter (R-52), Gary Miller (R-42), and George Radanovich (R-19).
CONTACT: Tamara Murray, (415) 890-1020
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