Virginia’s General Assembly rewriting Republican stance

Katherine Johnson Columnist

Virginia has been the butt of jokes for late night TV shows during the past two weeks. Both “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart” and “Saturday Night Live” have taken aim at House Bill 462, a controversial ultrasound bill, bringing national attention to Virginia’s General Assembly.

For those opposed to the bill, national media coverage is the best-case scenario. Originally, the bill stated that all women seeking an abortion must undergo a transvaginal ultrasound. Now,

The Richmond Times-Dispatch reported that 55 percent of Virginians oppose women undergoing an ultrasound before having an abortion. If you visit the governor’s official Facebook page, his wall is littered with post urging him to veto HB 462.

These numbers and actions should speak to Republicans and make them aware that they need to stop pushing their own agenda over Virginian’s opinions and rights. But Republicans seem intent on tyrannically intent on shoving their agenda right down our orifices.

Since when has the Republican Party wanted so much control over an indi- rights and an individual’s civil liberties. Numerous groups have protested outside of the Capitol in opposition to the bills, with national coverage adding pressure to lawmakers. With the recent amendment to the ultrasound bill, it’s obvious the governor wants to avoid media attention and criticism.

If Virginia continues to be the punch line for late night comedians’ jokes, maybe Republicans in the General Assembly will reconsider the bills altogether.

What is most frustrating about the bills may be the Republican Party’s identity crisis and double standards. If Obama’s healthcare plan is a violation of an individual’s rights, requiring an ultrasound before an abortion should be equated to the same idea. It’s as if conservatives are saying, “It’s only okay for us to violate your rights.” after public pressure, Gov. Bob McDonnell has amended the bill so a woman could reject an invasive ultrasound. vidual’s life? The last time I checked, Republicans stood for a small government that doesn’t invade it’s citizen’s lives. How is this bill any different then the Obama healthcare plan that conservatives constantly criticize? Clearly government intervention is okay when it’s conveniently aligns with the Republican agenda.

With the upcoming election, Republicans’ toughest opponents are themselves. Along with confusing voters on what the party stands for, the party is focusing on issues that the general population isn’t worried about at the moment.

Opinions expressed are those of individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Commonwealth Times or Virginia Commonwealth University. Unsigned editorials represent the institutional opinion of The CT.

Along with the ultrasound bill, a “personhood” bill has also received much attention. Thankfully it was shelved last week, but the mere idea that it still lives now, waiting until next year to be readdressed, is brutally offensive.

Both bills are a violation of women’s

It’s common knowledge that the country’s economic status is the most important factor in upcoming elections. Americans are focused on jobs, unemployment and the general health of the economy, not taking away women’s rights.

Republicans, do yourselves a favor and stick to the economy. This is the area in which you’d be most likely to win votes. CT

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