Pro-Life Leadership Silent as Trump Names Pro-Choice Kennedy to Lead HHS

Pro-Life Leadership Silent as Trump Names Pro-Choice Kennedy to Lead HHS

By Rev. Daniel Matthews, M.Div.

November 21, 2024 at 06:18 AM

Donald Trump's nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary marks a significant shift in Republican abortion politics. Kennedy, a lifelong Democrat and abortion supporter, previously endorsed pro-choice candidates before running as an independent and later endorsing Trump.

This nomination signals the GOP's transformation from a pro-life to a pro-choice party. Former Vice President Mike Pence expressed concern, noting this departure from their administration's pro-life stance would trouble millions of Republican voters.

Kennedy's stance on abortion has been clear - he initially opposed any government limits on abortion access, including late-term procedures. Though he later modified his position to support restrictions "up until a certain number of weeks," his pro-choice views remain firm.

What's particularly notable is the silence from major pro-life organizations. While these groups strongly opposed Biden's nomination of Xavier Becerra to HHS, only the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC) has publicly opposed Kennedy's nomination. Other prominent organizations like Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, Americans United for Life, and the National Right to Life Committee have remained silent.

Students for Life notably praised Kennedy, suggesting his slight position modification shows willingness to listen. However, this stance contradicts their previous stronger anti-abortion positions.

This situation challenges the credibility of pro-life organizations. Their selective opposition to abortion - seemingly based on political party - undermines their claimed nonpartisan commitment to protecting unborn life. The movement faces a crucial moment: either maintain consistent principles regardless of political affiliation or risk becoming merely a partisan tool.

Book and pen on white blanket

Book and pen on white blanket

The pro-life movement must now decide whether to prioritize political expediency or remain true to its foundational mission of protecting unborn life, regardless of which party holds power. This requires speaking out against pro-choice nominations from any political source and maintaining unwavering commitment to their core values.

Full ERLC statement from Brent Leatherwood emphasizes the need for careful Senate consideration of Kennedy's nomination, given his pro-choice views, and calls for recognition of the federal government's role in protecting all human life, born and unborn.

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