Today, Ohio House Republicans introduced a bill placing new restrictions on women seeking abortions, requiring doctors to do ultrasounds, describe physical features of the fetus, make an image and sound of the heartbeat available to the woman, requiring the doctor to discuss whether the fetus can feel pain, among other new and extreme restrictions. In response, candidate for governor, Cuyahoga County Executive Ed FitzGerald released the following statement:
“I’m appalled that Ohio Republicans are continuing their litany of outrageous attacks on women’s health and livelihood. A mandatory ultrasound law is nothing but a government intrusion into private, personal decision-making, coming from the party who pretends to stand for the opposite. These discussions belong only between a woman and her doctor.
“One thing is clear: these escalating attacks on women’s health and decisions demand a response—and Governor Kasich has been silent. The longer John Kasich stands idly by as these life-threatening attacks on women continue, the more unforgiveable it becomes.
“I’m running for governor because these cruel and unnecessary attacks on Ohio women must stop. I vow to stand up for Ohio women against these types of attacks which threaten their freedom and well-being.”