Langevin Statement on Opponent's Negative Ad

(WARWICK, R.I.) Congressman Jim Langevin today issued the following statement on his primary opponent's latest negative attack:

"Once again, my opponent has exploited a sensitive issue for political purposes, and this time she's crossed a line. I am angry, disappointed and have had enough of her manipulative tactics.

"I support a woman's right to abortion in cases of rape, incest and the life of the mother and have fought for emergency contraception and support services for sexual assault survivors.

"I am proud of my record supporting the Violence Against Women Act and being a cosponsor of its reauthorization this past year. I also helped lead an effort to ensure that victims of sexual assault have access to emergency contraception.

"In addition to sponsoring key legislation, I have worked tirelessly to obtain grant funding for victim services and rape prevention education here in Rhode Island. I am also proud to support our law enforcement agencies as they work to train their personnel on how to deal with cases of sexual assault.

"I have long believed that we all need to work together – government, social service agencies and law enforcement - to offer all the supports a survivor needs to feel safe.

"In stark contrast to the tactics of my opponent, I am proud to highlight my continued work in Congress on behalf of Rhode Island's families with an advertisement that is currently on running on local television. The need for security transcends national and homeland security. It is about health care security, economic security, housing security, energy security and educational security. I pledge to continue working to make all Rhode Islanders feel secure – in their homes, in their communities and in their country."

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