Massachusetts Gubernatorial Candidates Healey, Mihos Decline Answering Questionnaires From Three Abortion-Rights Groups

Massachusetts gubernatorial candidates Lt. Gov. Kerry Healey (R) and independent Christy Mihos have declined to fill out questionnaires submitted to the candidates by NARAL Pro-Choice Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Chapter of the National Organization for Women and the Planned Parenthood Advocacy Fund, the Boston Globe reports (Silva, Boston Globe, 8/8). Healey, who supports abortion rights, has said she backs a state law that requires minors under age 18 seeking abortions to obtain permission from a parent or guardian before undergoing the procedure (Kaiser Daily Women's Health Policy Report, 5/4). Mihos on his campaign Web site says that he supports a "woman's right to choose" and parental notification requirements when minors seek abortions (Mihos Web site, 8/8). According to the Globe, the three abortion-rights groups did not disclose the wording of the questionnaire, but advocates for the groups said it asked the candidates if they support access to emergency contraception, restrictions on abortion rights and funding for teen pregnancy prevention programs and sex education in schools. None of the three groups have endorsed a candidate in the gubernatorial election. Terri Febo, co-president of PPAF, said that if Healey "is pro-choice or says she is pro-choice, then she shouldn't be afraid to fill out a questionnaire," adding, "Now, we can only take her at her word." Healey spokesperson Amy Lambiaso said the lieutenant governor "has always been pro-choice," adding, "Her stance on those issues has not changed" (Boston Globe, 8/8).

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