Congressman Steve Russell (OK-5) issued the following statement regarding Planned Parenthood and the calls for a possible Government shutdown:
“The carving and commerce of unborn children with governmental assistance ranks as one of the most horrific and barbaric acts in American and human history. Evidence suggests that this is precisely the action taken by Planned Parenthood. Even so, evidence and charges must navigate the rule of law. As an unashamed pro-life father of five – three of them adopted – I am committed to the best possible actions to protect life and hold criminals to account.
“With this in view, making the defense of unborn children about a government shutdown could diminish the effort to save lives. I believe the best approach is to expose evidence, charge those responsible, and eliminate government aid or sanction for those engaged in such barbaric activity. And, that is precisely the path we are taking to bring justice and change.
“In the coming weeks, you will see broad attempts to sidetrack the issue into a government shutdown. As to Planned Parenthood, a shutdown will have little to no impact as they draw their government funds through Medicaid under Title X. We must guard against any attempt to shipwreck Pro-life efforts and make the issue something else. We must also remain steady and not become easily encumbered as we press our investigations and expose evidence. I believe the best course to ultimately save lives is to keep the fight about the unborn and not be sidetracked into an effort that diminishes our stand and has little impact on funding. Please continue to pray for our efforts as we seek God’s wisdom in the preservation of life.”
