Catholic Leaders Demand Apology from Gov. Hochul Over Controversial Prop 1 Remarks
New York Governor Kathy Hochul is under fire from Catholic leaders and opposition groups for her recent comments labeling them as “evil” and part of “forces of darkness.” The backlash centers around Proposition 1, a controversial measure set for the November ballot, aimed at enshrining abortion rights in the state constitution while also including protections for gender identity, ethnicity, and national origin.
Opponents argue that the vague language of the proposition could allow biological men who identify as transgender to compete in women’s sports, permit minors to undergo surgical gender reassignment without parental consent, and lead to increased taxpayer burdens for services to illegal migrants. They further claim that the amendment could enable non-citizens to vote in elections. Prop 1’s critics, including New York Cardinal Timothy Dolan, have branded it a “Trojan Horse” harboring problematic policies under the guise of equality.
Hochul, defending the measure, accused opponents of using fear tactics, stating, “Don’t let darkness win over light,” at a recent rally. In response, Bobbie Anne Cox, a constitutional lawyer and spokesperson for the Vote No on Prop One Committee, called Hochul’s remarks incendiary and demanded an apology, emphasizing that the claims against opponents are baseless and harmful.
In a further show of solidarity, Ayesha Kreutz from the Coalition to Protect Kids-NY echoed the call for an apology, highlighting the significant opposition from religious leaders statewide. While polling indicates strong support for Prop 1, concerns are rising among backers about its reception in suburban and upstate areas, crucial for upcoming elections. Hochul has reiterated the importance of protecting abortion rights, warning that they could be threatened by a potential national ban.
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