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Planned Parenthood And Sen. Susan Collins Tussle Over Kavanaugh Vote

(CNN 10/7/2018)

Mike Brest Reporter
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Republican Senator Susan Collins responded to attacks against her made by Planned Parenthood for her vote in favor of confirming Brett Kavanaugh during her appearance on CNN’s “State of the Union” on Sunday morning.

WATCH:

CNN’s Dana Bash asked Collins about a Planned Parenthood tweet that said, “This isn’t just another vote. @SenatorCollins has made it clear that she can no longer call herself a women’s rights champion. She has sided with those who disbelieved, disrespected, and even mocked survivors.”

She responded, “I have never disregarded, disrespected or mocked survivors. That is just plain untrue. And I would note that Planned Parenthood opposed three pro choice justices just because they were nominated by Republican presidents — David Souter, Sandra Day O’Connor and Justice Kennedy. They said the same thing. Women will die. And this is just outrageous. I work to preserve funding for Planned Parenthood over and over again, and I’m going to continue to do so.”

“I’ve met with so many groups of survivors, I talked with friends who, with one exception, who confided in me years ago, I had no idea that they’ve been sexually assaulted,” she continued. “So I have learned how pervasive this terrible problem is in our society. And, clearly, we need to step up and do something about it and every survivor deserves to be heard and respected.”

On Friday, while speaking on the Senate floor, she said, “I do not believe that these charges can fairly prevent Judge Kavanaugh from serving on the Court,” referring to Dr. Ford allegations of sexual misconduct against Kavanaugh. (RELATED: Kavanaugh Has The Votes: Key Lawmakers Back Embattled Nominee, Ensuring Confirmation)

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