WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-5), joined House Democrats to highlight the reintroduction of the Women’s Health Protection Act (WHPA). Below is a transcript of her remarks:

“Thank you, Judy Chu! Judy is leading the charge with this vital, life-saving, freedom-defending WHPA legislation, and we are so grateful for you. 

“House Democrats are not going to stand for women in this country being made second-class citizens. But tragically, because of extreme MAGA Republicans, that is the reality facing women across this country.

“I recently traveled to Texas, and was with my good friend Greg Casar, as we heard from advocates, from providers, from navigators, about what they are experiencing. And, I learned the story of a Dallas woman who lost her limbs due to sepsis because she was denied help during a miscarriage. Think about that. Where the victims of rape and incest are being forced into parenthood.

"House Republicans have deserted one of America's most basic values: freedom. 

“Democrats understand that controlling one's body is a fundamental freedom. Republicans think our bodies should be subject to the rule of politicians. Democrats understand that abortion is health care. Republicans think health care warrants a prison sentence and even proposing [the] death penalty. That's the MAGA vision of a dystopia where the powerful and the privileged have total control.

“With the Women's Health Protection Act, Democrats are fighting for a future where abortion access is the law of the land. A future where health care decisions are in the hands of women and doctors – and nobody else. We stand with the American people and nothing will stop us from putting the health and freedom of women over politics. 

“I am grateful to be in this fight with my colleagues and especially with our next speaker, a proud voice for reproductive justice and our Chair of our Caucus: Pete Aguilar.”

To watch the full press conference, click HERE. For photos of the event, click HERE.