IN SECOND GUBERNATORIAL DEBATE, MCAULIFFE COMES OUT STRONG FOR REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS

Tonight, Terry McAuliffe put up his second straight strong debate performance in the matchup before Virginia’s general election. McAuliffe once again made clear that he’ll champion Virginans’ reproductive rights — unlike Glenn Youngkin, who continued to obscure his anti-abortion and anti-reproductive health views from voters.

Statement from Jamie Lockhart, executive director of Planned Parenthood Advocates of Virginia:

“Terry McAuliffe’s the clear winner of tonight’s debate and the right choice for Virginia’s next governor. In a commonwealth where voters overwhelmingly support legal, accessible abortion and where neighboring states are at high risk of losing abortion access, we need a champion for reproductive freedom like Terry McAuliffe in the governor’s mansion. Tonight, while Terry McAuliffe reiterated his support for access to essential health care and his commitment to preventing extreme bans on abortion from becoming law here in Virginia, Glenn Youngkin made it clearer than ever that he does not support the constitutional right to abortion.

The difference between McAuliffe and Glenn Youngkin could not be starker. As Youngkin continued to obfuscate and rely on half-truths to mask his anti-abortion agenda, Terry stood up for Virginians’ health and rights. Make no mistake: Youngkin’s anti-abortion beliefs don’t reflect those of the majority of Virginians, and voters won’t be fooled as they head to the polls.”

The debate between McAuliffe and Youngkin was the second time the two had met on stage. During the previous debate, Youngkin refused to answer whether he’d support a dangerous Texas-style six-week abortion ban. But Terry McAuliffe was open with voters about his support for abortion rights, reminding them that he’s been “a brick wall” against attacks on reproductive rights and health throughout his career.

That record is why Planned Parenthood Advocates of Virginia endorsed Terry McAuliffe for governor in July. As the former governor, McAuliffe twice protected funding for Planned Parenthood, ensuring continued access to high-quality, affordable, and non-judgmental reproductive health care for thousands of Virginians. Planned Parenthood Advocates of Virginia is confident that Terry McAuliffe will ensure Virginia keeps moving forward.