COLUMBUS — This evening DeWine provided televised remarks in response to the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe V. Wade.
DeWine started his remarks by saying he would not “debate the merit of this decision.”
He asked that the issued is discussed by all sides in a kind, civil and respectful manner.
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“It is going to be very easy to let this debate get rough and tough and there is certainly nothing wrong with spirited debate. However, we must do it in a way that recognizes that smart, sincere, dedicated, and caring people can have very, very different and equally heartfelt views,” DeWine said.
DeWine said he wants Ohio to be the most “pro-family and pro-child” in the state. This is where he believed all sides can find common ground.
“Though we have made progress, we agree that we must do even more to lower our infant and maternal mortality, especially among African American mothers and babies,” he said.
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DeWine said he has directed state health and human service agencies to bein new, innovative ideas to ensure that vulnerable mothers get the help they need.
He added he will increase awareness about adoption, to “ensure that every child finds a permanent, loving home and family. And, we will seek to expand healthcare coverage.”
DeWine ended his remarks with a call for finding common ground.
“Let us now find that common ground, roll up our sleeves, dig deep, and join together in solving the problems that we all agree must be solved,” he said.
Democratic gubernatorial nominee Nan Whaley issued the following statement following DeWine’s remarks:
“Once again, Mike DeWine is attempting to falsely moderate his extreme positions in an attempt to win an election. The facts are clear: Mike DeWine is one of the most anti-choice governors in the country. Abortion is on the ballot in Ohio this November and no matter how much DeWine tries to spin the need for ‘a civil discussion,’ voters won’t forget his actions when it came to failing to protect women’s rights.”