Bean-McSweeney dust-up on abortion
But it was the issue of abortion rights that evoked the most passionate exchange between McSweeney and Bean, who accused her challenger of moderating his conservative views in an attempt to take away votes from her.
Citing the “Public Affairs” cable television program that airs in the 8th District, Bean said McSweeney had said he would support anti-abortion legislation without an exemption to protect the life of the mother.
In the last few months, however, Bean said that McSweeney had moderated his view by telling voters he would not support such a bill.
“I don’t think I ever want to hear the word ‘flip-flop’ from this man again,” Bean said, referring to McSweeney’s assertions that the incumbent lawmaker has changed her view on various positions since she took office.
McSweeney said Bean had taken his remarks on the cable program out of context, an assertion that the program’s host, Jeff Berkowitz, agreed with Monday.
“What I said is I would always favor the exception for the life of the mother, and ideally for rape and incest,” McSweeney said later Monday. “My record is very clear on that issue.”
And to give Jeff credit (I’ll link to the post Jeff if you send me the url), McSweeney gave the answer after Jeff pinned him down. But let’s make one point clear, McSweeney would vote for a ban on abortion without those ‘exceptions’.
Also, to be fair, if it’s legit to go after Kerry for he was for it before he was against it—it’s fair here.
I must confess, I think McSweeney is the most likeable of the Republican candidates for Congress in Illinois, but part of the reason for that is he’s probably a bit to forthecoming on such questions. And let me make doubly clear, he’s very, very conservative and I wouldn’t support him.
Ahhh..the irony, Jeff Berkowitz helps bury Republican candidate for Congress….(for those not getting the joke, Jeff loves to revel in being tough on candidates from both parties)