Bush Defies Voters' Call For Common-Ground, Continues Divisive Attacks On Women's Health

Washington, D.C. – Nancy Keenan, president of NARAL Pro-Choice America, called President Bush's appointment of anti-birth-control leader Eric Keroack to lead family-planning programs at the Department of Health and Human Services, a clear sign that the White House refuses to heed voters' call for an end to divisive, politically motivated attacks on women's health.

"Once again, we see what lengths this president will go to in order to pacify his anti-birth-control right-wing base," Keenan said. "This appointment demonstrates that after losing power in both houses of Congress, President Bush will now exploit the powers of his office to advance his far-right agenda. Right after defeats in last week's election, Bush pledged to seek common ground on issues important to Americans. This latest move shows that he's willing to break his pledge to the public if it means he scores points with far-right pressure groups. Bush has failed to demonstrate real leadership and is giving every indication that voters should just expect more of the same from this out-of-touch White House."

Keroack is affiliated with the organization A Woman's Concern. According to that group's website, "A Woman's Concern is persuaded that the crass commercialization and distribution of birth control is demeaning to women, degrading of human sexuality and adverse to human health and happiness."

Americans do not agree with this extreme view on birth-control and family planning - 98 percent of American women will use birth control at some point in their lives.

Contact:
Ted Miller, 202.973.3032