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(7/31/2006)
Pro Life Group Finds Cause to Celebrate from Poll Supporter cites rape exception included in bill but often ignored by media
BY BOB ELLIS DAKOTA VOICE Despite a pessimistic response in the mainstream media, supporters of South Dakota's abortion ban which goes to the polls November 7 find cause for optimism in a poll released today. The poll, conducted for the Argus Leader by Mason-Dixon Polling and Research of 800 registered voters, found that 47% said they oppose the ban, 39% favor it, and 14% are undecided. The poll also asked those who said they were opposed or undecided how they would vote if the law allowed abortions for rape/incest: 59% said they would support it, 29% said they would oppose it, and 12% were undecided. According to media reports, the exception in Section 3 of HB 1215 which allows for emergency contraception for several days after a rape was not mentioned in the poll. “When the numbers are analyzed, there is much to be viewed as positive here,” said Rep. Kathy Miles of Sioux Falls, a VoteYesForLife.com coalition member. “First and foremost, 59% of the registered voters support a YES vote when there is a rape and incest exception," she continued. "There is a provision for rape and incest already in Referred Law 6, which allows victims of sexual assault to seek medical attention up to 9 days after the assault. The VoteYesForLife.com campaign joins with law enforcement and medical authorities in urging sexual assault victims to seek medical care as soon as possible. As we educate the voters about how Section 3 provides for medical care, compassion, and justice for rape and incest victims, the people of South Dakota will Vote Yes on Referred Law 6.” Rep. Miles, a Democrat legislator, pointed out, “The legislators did consider rape and incest victims. We heard from many over the past three years who regretted their abortions. Many reported feeling coerced into aborting, and afterward felt that they had become the victimizer. The rape and incest provision in Section 3 is written very carefully to withstand any court challenges, and to ensure that victims receive the medical care, compassion, and justice they deserve. What we did not want was an open-ended loophole to allow even late-term abortions on demand.” Megan Barnett from Aberdeen said, “Many people leave the opinion of rape and incest survivors out of their decision, and react on their own fears. I was raped, and I did become pregnant. While I was afraid to face the uncertain future, I love my daughter more than life itself. Her birth and my family’s love for her has helped me heal and move on from my rape.” Another fact that bodes well for the VoteYesForLife.com is the percentage of strong Yes or No voters. In the first question, 39 percent reported voting YES. In the second question, 29 percent voted NO. These numbers are hard supporters. The undecided voters and those who changed position between question 1 and question 2 can be swung to vote YES! “The VoteYesForLife.com campaign is very upbeat and encouraged by this development. We are looking forward to the opportunity to spread our message of protecting the health of all women, including those who are survivors of sex crimes, and protecting the lives of all babies, including those conceived through rape and incest,” said Miles.
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