LEWISTON, Maine - Supporters of Planned Parenthood held simultaneous rallies Wednesday night outside the Maine offices of Reps. Bruce Poliquin and Chellie Pingree to denounce a bill that would defund the health care provider.
Tom Coon of Portland joined the crowd outside Rep. Pingree's Portland office. "I'm very much a supporter of access to good health care, and safe and legal health care, and in my mind, that's a pro-life position."
Denise Morrell of Westbrook says she's frustrated that Planned Parenthood is being singled out by GOP House leaders. She says it provides a range of health services, from cancer screenings to well-women exams.
"I guess I feel like I'm speaking up for someone else who really needs that health care and might not be aware that it's at risk," Morrell said.
The GOP proposal to replace the Affordable Care Act includes a provision to defund Planned Parenthood. Federal money does not cover abortions except when the mother's life is at risk or in cases of rape or incest.
