New Brunswick, NJ – During a debate held in New Brunswick, candidates for New Jersey governor, mikie Sherrill and Jack Ciattarelli, clashed over abortion rights and reproductive healthcare access. The exchange highlighted stark differences in their approaches to a deeply divisive issue as the election nears.
The debate centered on a question regarding enshrining abortion rights in the state constitution, mirroring a key policy difference between the candidates. Ciattarelli stated, “I’ve always supported a woman’s right to choose and I said yes to that question back in 2021, what I don’t support is celebrating abortion the way the current governance does, what I don’t support is making New Jersey the abortion capital of the country.” He further advocated for parental notification for minors seeking abortions, drawing a parallel to existing laws requiring parental consent for procedures like ear piercings. “But we’re not gonna notify parents when a 16 or 17-year-old is having an abortion performed?” he asked.”I think that’s terribly wrong.”
Sherrill countered Ciattarelli’s statements, accusing him of spreading misinformation and highlighting his past legislative actions. “When you put in place things like my opponent has suggested,people die,” Sherrill asserted. She also pointed to Ciattarelli’s previous vote to defund Planned Parenthood, arguing that his record demonstrates a stance inconsistent with supporting abortion rights.
The debate underscores the high stakes of the gubernatorial election, with reproductive rights emerging as a central issue for voters. The outcome will significantly impact the future of abortion access and related healthcare policies in New Jersey.
