Is GOP truly interested in children?

We all hope desired pregnancies are healthy, resulting in healthy babies that grow into healthy children. While debating Kamala Harris, Donald Trump repeated the unconscionable lie that Democrats are willing to allow abortions up to full term, and even post-birth (infanticide), with this lie pointed out by the moderator.

Sometimes pregnancies are not healthy, and the mother needs health care that might require a safe abortion. This decision is up to only the family and the doctor. Is the GOP truly “pro-life,” truly interested in children? According to the NY Times (I’m quoting an article by Nicholas Kristof), “Congressional Republicans killed the child tax credit, which had cut child poverty by 50 percent. Republican-controlled states refused to expand Medicaid, and children in those states have higher death rates. Gun violence is the leading cause of death for people 19 and under, thanks to Republicans’ insistence on lax gun laws.” And they’re calling Democrats anti-child and anti-family?

What is the GOP plan for caring for children after they’re born, with free and accessible early child health care, safe daycareJ, enriching preschool opportunities and safe public schools for all children? How about postnatal health care for the mothers, and parenting skills for all expecting parents? Where do these family-nurturing values fit into GOP plans? “Pro-life” must include the mother’s health and safety, and the child’s future ability to thrive.

Jo Ann McNiel

Cedar Rapids