NARAL Pro-Choice America Endorses Sen. Barack Obama for President

I have never been so disgusted. How dare you claim to represent pro-choice women and then turn your back on one of the most influential women's right advocates in recent history? I am a lifelong activist and I will never, never forgive you for this.

Hillary has been a champion for women's rights. Remember ICPD? Remember VAWA? What has Obama done that can hold a candle to her record? Nothing. He has not one comparable achievement.

History will not treat you kindly. You'll be remembered as part of the howling mob who tried to tear apart the woman who dared reach for the highest office in the land.

And for what? You know Obama is wishy-washy on choice. He never mentions women's issues. He clearly will not be a leader for us.

Shame on you. Shame shame shame.

One more thing - I suppose you are familiar with Obama's statements at last month's Compassion Forum in Pennsylvania? Check the transcript.

"Those of us, like myself, who believe that in this difficult situation it is a woman's responsibility and choice to make in consultation with her doctor and her pastor and her family.

I think we will continue to suggest that that's the right legal framework to deal with the issue. But at least we can start focusing on how to move in a better direction than the one we've been in the past."

So "we will continue to suggest that that's the right framework" counts as standing up for choice?

How about this, from the RH Reality Check candidate questionnaire:

Question: Does (the candidate) support any restrictions on abortion, or does s/he believe it should be entirely up to women?

Obama's answer: Obama supports those restrictions that are consistent with the legal framework outlined by the Supreme Court in Roe v. Wade."

Well, every restriction we have on the books has been considered by the Supreme Court to be consistent within Roe's framework.

Again, not a leader. Not a champion.

I am outraged. This is absolutely ridiculous. I will never give money or support to NARAL again. Shame on you, NARAL, for selling out to the left wing of the Democratic Party.

Hillary Clinton has worked her entire life for women's rights and to keep abortion legal in America. This is insulting and a slap in a face to her career and to all women. Shame on you.

I am insulted, as all pro-choice Democratic women should be, that Naral would endorse Senator Obama.

Hillary Clinton has been standing for women's rights for over 30 years while Obama has voted "present" a record 7 times for pro-choice votes in the Illinois State Senate.

There are no words to explain how disappointed and angry I am at your organization.

I am extremely disappointed in NARAL. You waited this long, why would you not wait another two weeks until we have a nominee? You are counting Hillary out before everyone has spoken. You announce this endorsement the morning after she swept EVERY SINGLE county in WV. The morning after she defeated Obama by 41 points! The morning after the possibility of her winning the popular vote was raised. I can't believe that you actually think Obama would be a stronger advocate of choice, so I must assume you are simply trying to jump the gun and get on board with the Democratic nominee. Again, if you've waited this long, why endorse now? You are counting her out like so many groups and media have done time and time again. It is that attitude that has left us with such little hope of her becoming the nominee. It is a self-fulfilling prophecy. I could write an essay on the many reasons she would obviously be the better advocate for choice, all aside from the fact that she is a woman. But you all know her many accomplishments, so that would be a waste of time. I just cannot express how disappointed I am that NARAL did not wait two weeks for an official nominee. For every woman that felt she needed to support Obama so she didn't seem to be supporting Hillary soley for her gender, for every group jumping ship, for everyone trying to prove something, for everyone counting her out, shame on you.

Shame on NARAL. Hillary Clinton has an unequivocal, strong and unquestioned position on choice. Obama has been trying to be "in the middle" on this issue as on every other issue. For you to turn your back on the most viable woman candidate before the primary season is over is an outrage. You are joining too many men in the Democratic party who would rather lose an election than nominate a woman.

What timing. What a terrible endorsement. What a grave disappointment. I have been working for many years in the the US Women's Movement and this just makes me so upset. If you had/have issues - you should have just waited to endorse the final nominee.
What do you think you are saying to Senator Clinton? Is this your response to her life long work for women, mothers, children? Do you need to see her speech in Beijing?
Maybe you need to look at Senator Obama's record on choice in Illinois, his position on the ERA. Did he talk about Ledbetter v Goodyear when it was in the Supreme court? And has he made a commitment to put women on the court?
I could go on pages, suffice it to say, women support women - you know that. I know you know that.

I am disappointed that NARAL, whom I have supported for years, is endorsing Obama prematurely. You are dividing your critical supporters by taking this stand. We are all needed in California to fight more propositions aimed at limiting a young woman's access to abortion and we will have a huge fight against McCain. Hillary has been a champion for women's reproductive rights all her life and the primary election is NOT OVER! The need to do this endorsement now escapes me. This is a sexist position to deny Hillary the right, as we have afforded male candidates in the past, to run to the finish line in a primary. NARAL has been getting the word out on McCain and there is time to really reveal his stand on the issues. This urgency is a false argument. Who managed to push your organization to this untimely act?
You have bought into the media hype that the race is over and are denying Hillary the right to finish this process for all the voters who support her.

A dual endorsement earlier would have been a great way to point out the differences....what were you thinking at this point? Please reconsider your position and make a statement about both candidates' support of choice and reproductive freedom. It takes a big organization to admit a mistake.

Mary Jane Casper
California

You could have waited until after the Oregon primary.

And I repeat Shameful's, note that "Hillary Clinton has been standing for women's rights for over 30 years while Obama has voted "present" a record 7 times for pro-choice votes in the Illinois State Senate."

Sad.

I join the others in condemning NARAL for its shortsighted betrayal of a woman who has for decades championed the causes of women. Obama's weak-kneed health plan should have been all you needed to say that he is NOT READY to be president.

When you really look at Obama's record, you will see that he is a media creation. Yes, he gave an inspirational speech at the Democratic convention in 2004. That made him a media darling and got him launched into the presidential campaign over the men and one woman who have worked for women's issues much harder than Obama ever did (Chris Dodd and Joe Biden especially). The media elevated Fred Thompson, also--another man with no real record but a lot of name recognition. The key difference between Thompson and Obama is that Obama is charming on the talk circuit. His time may come--he's young and educable--but he has never really put himself on the line. Naral should be beyond getting charmed, looking past the seduction of "change" to see who has really done the work.

The timing of this endorsement, coming after Hillary Clinton's overwhelming win in West Virginia will add to the media frenzy over Obama's "inevitability." Well, count me out.

Shame, shame, shame.

Shame on you NARAL. I have supported NARAL since 1974 when I was a 21 year old college student. I was so impressed with NARAL and their recognition that a woman's right to choose would continue to be jeopardized, despite the Supreme Court decision. Hillary Clinton has never waivered in her support of a woman's right to choose. She has been unbowed in her support and advocacy of issues affecting women and children. I suspect that NARAL is concerned with an aging membership and see endorsement of Obama an opening to appeal to a potentially younger audience. It's a cynical move and will most likely backfire. I have no problem with NARAL endorsing a candidate who has a record of supporting a woman's right to choose. But you have two candidates who support choice, and one of them has a decades long record of support. So what is the justification for endorsing one over the other. Cynicism. Again, shame on you.

Thank you NARAL for seeing that this is not just a womens issue. It's an issue that concerns men and women. To think that Hillary Clinton is the only voice for women is sexist. I am voting for the candidate that believes in bringing people together, not segregating them by sex, race or religion.

Why settle for thirty years of fighting for women's rights when you can have 'present' votes and obscure statements of 'support' from Obama?

To say this is a low point for NARAL is an understatement. I will need to consider alternative vehicles for my contributions toward women's reproductive rights.

I am so disappointed as a woman that you endorsed Obama before the Democratic primary is even over! You have thrown all of the progressive men and women who have fought for reproductive rights and are fighting for the first women nominee under the bus. Particularly for a man who votes "present" on tough reproductive issues. I am blown away.

You should be ashamed of yourselves.

What a grave grave GRAVE mistake on NARAL's behalf. Not only are not endorsing a fantastic pro-choice FEMALE candidate, but you're only going to lose support. Nothing about this endorsement makes sense. What do you have to gain? Let's think about this for a minute logically. Women over 50 have been Hillary's base. Who are the majority of pro-choice voters, or women who care the most about choice in this country? Women over 50. What is this going to do for NARAL? Piss off your base, lose you money, lose you support, thus LOSE US VOTES IN CONGRESS.

At the very least, if you felt strongly enough about Obama you could have waited until the party decided it's candidate. You said you wanted to "heal the rift" in Democrats. Heal the rift? By endorsing one of them?? And endorsing the MALE who voted PRESENT on SEVEN choice votes in the Illinois senate and snubbing the first viable female candidate after her tireless work for choice and women's rights. You know perfectly well that EC wouldn't be over the counter if it wasn't for Hillary. You know of her work for Prevention first. You know VERY WELL what her presidency would have meant for preserving reproductive justice in this country.

I'm extremely upset, and ashamed. You just lost all my support, membership, and donations.

Kayla, who is 22.

I just wish to add my voice to the growing chorus of women who feel betrayed by your actions. Senator Obama has NEVER been a leader or taken a difficult stand to support a women's right to choose the way Hillary Clinton has FOR YEARS!!!

He has been very clear that he is willing to compromise our democratic ideals to achieve unity.
When a politician starts talking about compromise....our rights are the first to become a bargining chip.

What a sellout

NARAL has completely lost my support. You have confirmed my long-held contention that feminism in this country is truly dead. I hope your organization can continue to operate with Obama's new coalition...you're gonna need it.

To say I am appalled, disappointed, disgusted, frustrated and outraged would be a complete understatement.

PS - How can we get removed from future mailings? How can I have contributions refunded?

I agree with those above me: a colossally unfortunate decision, with an extraordinary pro-choice woman (with a far longer record of fighting for women than her opponent) still very much in the race. This smacks of the worst sort of political calculation, and is hugely disappointing. Bad show.

I just wish I never wrote NARAL a check! I will never support NARAL again. Now, my money will go to EMILYs list or Planned Parenthood.
Shame on you.
Why wouldn't NARAL wait 3 weeks? Why didn't NARAL consult their state chapters? Why didn't NARAL at least ASK those who have financially supported them what their views are?

Actually, after reading Shelley's comment...I would love to get a refund for my check as well. Thanks for the idea Shelley. I will email them directly instead of on the blog.

Quite a disappointment. I thought Naral would of known better. They should of at least waited until we had a nominee.

You, and a handful of young girls under the Obama "ether". Get real. Never a dime more from me. Obama is an empty suit speechmaker who appeals to the young crowd because he looks like he's 30, has a booming voice, and can articulate our problems. He's 47 and what has he really ever done. I believe in giving credit where credit is due, and for supporting the candidate who is strongest to fight ALL of our ills (so many, so critical.) We have no time for a green pea. Hillary is smart, tough, tested, and has been crucified, first in the White House, recently by the media (continuously), and now by you.

Actually...instead of a direct refund, I'm asking them to transfer my check directly to EMILYs List, or to refund me directly so that I can then write that check to EMILYs List!

The day after 70% of women in west virginia voted for Hillary Clinton, NARAL decides to tell women voters in west virginia and all across this nation that their voice on who best represents their interests simply doesn't matter to NARAL. With today's action, your organization and leadership is shown to be both craven and opportunistic. I would join my sisters in saying shame on you, but I'm not convinced you actually care what women think of you or your organization.

I am furious at this. This is ridiculous. Senator Clinton has been a leader in woman's reproductive and general human rights since she was a young woman. Are you crazy? I will NEVER EVER donate to this organization, and I am forwarding this disgusting information to the 100 plus people on my Hillary email list in Maine. By not supporting Senator Clinton you might as well be endorsing Senator McCain. You should wait til Senator Clinton says it's over to jump on the Obama bandwagon. What kind of feminists are you??! And Senator Obama had some very wishy washy rep.rights votes in the state senate in order to further his career, and you know it. You call yourself a women's organization? Let me tell you something, not only has she advocated for woman's reproductive rights, but when reproductive rights aren't upheld, and unwanted children are born, it's been Senator Clinton's work that helps them, not Senator Obama's. Trust me, I know, I'm a social worker. There's a before, during, and after to this discussion, and your endorsement leaves out a lot of the spectrum. How better to advocate for women across the globe than to show, by electing a president, that women can and will be world leaders? That's when women's reproductive rights and other rights will really be upheld. You should be ashamed of yourself. Truly disgusting!!! You need to retract that, or fully endorse Senator Clinton as well. I will never support your work, ever, unless you do, and nor will the many women I know. This is a mistake and you need to undo it. How about endorsing someone who can reproduce, for starters??????? Shame on you!!!!!!! I am apalled!!!!! Senator Clinton deserves your endorsement and you know it! Undo this!

I cannot express how disheartening it is to see this. This is not about blindly supporting a woman just because she is a woman. Though that fact certainly makes her run all the more exciting and important, she is the best candidate, male or female, for the job. This is so clear, especially when it comes to the issue of reproductive rights, that I am completely baffled as to why NARAL is doing this, and why now. If NARAL believes that Obama will be the nominee, and thus should be endorsed, then wait two weeks until the primaries have ended. Seeing NARAL join the groups who insist that Hillary cannot win and should drop out is shocking! Why are you announcing this the morning after a landslide victory?! You are going to take what little media attention she might have gained away from her. What does it say to the men and women across this country that even NARAL Pro-Choice America chooses Obama over Hillary?
I worked 7 long months on the Hillary campaign, from 80-100 hours a week, traveling across four states to elect the first woman president of the United States, to elect the candidate with the experience to best represent people all across this nation. I had doors slammed in my face, phones slammed down, and heard that "that bitch could never win" countless times. If NARAL wishes to support Obama, should he be the nominee, over McCain, that is fantastic. But why did you have to join the ranks counting Hillary out? You really could not wait two weeks to stand with the Democrats over the Republicans, instead of with Obama over Hillary? I don't buy that. This was unnecessary and sends a frightening message to the women of this country.

I'm very impressed that NARAL went on a limb for the candidate that is ahead in the primary. With so much to lose in the general, it's time for pro-choice people to get behind Senator Obama.

Thanks for all of your hard work!

Et tu Brute! That's quite a blow to your gender and delivered at a prime time in the campaign, too. The most rabid woman haters could not have done more damage.

It's not enough that I've endured months of witnessing "Hillary hate" in the media, on the Internet, etc., and had to listen to calls of "F----g whore" and "bitch" and "c---t" hurled at the candidate I support. Now, at a crucial moment in this tremendously important race, you choose to betray the interests of the women of America by endorsing a man who has inspired slogans like "Bros before Ho's" and who, in appearances made after his Pennsylvania debate with Clinton, "flipped off" his opponent and her whole gender. You expect him to defend our rights?

I very much doubt that your choice will win the presidency if he is the candidate. He is no match for McCain and Huckabee (the Republicans' probable vice presidential nominee). Unlike Hillary, your guy does not connect with and cannot win over the bulk of mainstream working people in America. Huckabee, who is rooted in the religious right and sees women as the "servants of men" is perceived as a "populist" who can "talk the talk" with everyday working people. We need Hillary, with her proven ability to connect with working Americans, in the race to avoid defeat in November.

Congratulate yourselves on helping the Democrats once again fulfill their historic mission by seizing defeat from the jaws of victory once again.

VERY DISAPPOINTED!!!
Naral jumped on the Barrack bandwagon like the other knee jerkers! At least you could have waited until the voters had their say rather than following the Hillary-Hatering media!

Obama is an airbag full of rhetoric, with no substance, no detailed plan.
Fools! Kiss your donation goodbye!

you'll never see another penny from me.

Disappointing is an understatement...

As a young woman in today's society, I daily, no hourly, no CONSTANTLY witness the effects of poor leadership in the arena of women's reproductive health. In particular, I work with high school and college age women who are constantly seeking access to sex information, education, and protection, so I see what the future of the nation experiences when we actually look at the effect of our country's policies, as I believed NARAL had.

If Obama cannot stand for protecting women in Illinois, how can we have faith that he will stand to protect the women of the entire country?

To endorse a candidate that is a lesser advocate for women, a lesser proponent for women's health & safety, a less qualified leader for women overall, shows that you choose to participate in and support leadership of a world the offers LESS for women.

NARAL has acknowledged Senator Clinton's 100% pro-choice voting record. How can you turn your back on her now?

I am proud to be a member of two organizations - NOW & NWPC - that have chosen to endorse the ONLY candidate committed to the rights of women in this current race - Senator Hillary Clinton.

And I now understand why I'm NOT a member of your organization.

Let me add my voice to the chorus of those who are disappointed with this endorsement. I find the timing suspect - did the Obama people pressure you all in the wake of last night's shellacking he took in WV?

I find this "endorsement" disrespectful to all of the hardworking women who have supported NARAL over the years - you know, the ones like Hillary Clinton. Obama has not been with us.

Shame on NARAL.

Thank you for endorsing Obama today. As a progressive, I am happy to see that you didn't just endorse a candidate BECAUSE of gender. I made another donation today to try and help counter what I'm sure will be a backlash from people who think you should have endorsed HRC because she is a woman. Thank you for standing up for the many pro-choice women who do support Obama!

Peace,
Natalie

The only thing I can hope is that this is a publicity stunt—that you will be bombarded with e-mails from outraged women and will reverse your decision. That would be the only thing that could possibly make sense with regard to this endorsement.

Did you really think your supporters would be thrilled? Or is your organization run by the same giggling group of women who were so enthralled by Obama in jeans on the press plane last week?

Women (especially young women): We get what we deserve if we continue this trend of competition instead of sisterhood.

Thank you, NARAL. You made the right decision, hands-down.

Seriously, people. Are you really going to quit NARAL in disgust because they endorsed a progressive with 100% voting record on choice over another progressive with a great record, too? Especially when the NY Times called Obama, as of this morning, the "almost nominee"? And with no one disputing that he's a hundred times better on the issues than McCain?

I'm also a bit surprised that the reason for the timing isn't obvious - it's a political calculation that could have an immensely positive impact on the organization if the math is right. In other words, when Obama's sitting in the White House, who does he remember and think of most? The organization that was one of many to get behind him after his nomination? Or the group that took a bold and courageous stand before the nomination was in the bag?

Easy math to me... With Obama pulling ahead in every aspect of the race that matters, and Hillary's only hope being rewriting the rules after the fact to seat MI & FL delegates (which ain't gonna happen), this is one hell of a smart move by NARAL which could pay dividends for years.

I, too, am a NARAL member - and this kind of smart political thinking is exactly why I respect this organization so much.

Next stop for me: surfing on over to step up to the next membership level.

Sen. Clinton has a strong record and has been a thoughtful advocate in support of reproductive issues, so I am at a loss to understand why NARAL would choose to endorse her opponent this late in the primary process. Unfortunately, it seems that this action will only divide us rather than unite us in defeating the anti-choice Republican candidate in the fall. I have to echo the above posters in saying that this endorsement at this time really is a shame.

Have you gone mad? Let's see.. he votes "present" on women's issues in the IL senate, and that earns him NARAL's endorsement? I'm a NARAL member and a NOW member. I will take the money that I have used for NARAL and re-direct it to NOW. I encourage all disappointed NARAL members to the the same. This "endorsement" rings hollow to me. NOW was the first group to endorse HILLARY and continues to actively support her.

Beth

I'm ashamed to say I ever served on the NARAL board in PA. Take me off all of your lists... emails / phone calls begging for money

you are OUT

if I get one call or harrassment / I'll take legal action.

you made your bed - now go sleep in it with B Hussein O.

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Given how incredibly strong both Democratic candidates are on this issue, it's nice to have at least one group starting to work on behalf of the most likely democratic candidate, and against the incredibly anti-choice McCain. I live in a swing state, where the most socially conservative democrats are anti abortion and also anti-Obama for racial reasons. (I heard Obama called a "crypto-Muslim" by one Democratic committee person, and a "monkey man--is he really human?" by his friend.) We count on independents and Rockefeller-style progressive republicans to balance out the neanderthal wing of our own party. NARAL is an essential part of that process. (P.S. the conservatives were glad to vote for Hillary because they "knew" that she's just "window dressing" and that Bill Clinton would be the real president. Very disgusting.) As far as I can tell, you have never done any Hilary hating; you seem to have tallied the delegates, checked what a lead McCain was taking in organizing his support, and decided to fill an important gap. Again, thanks for an unusual and courageous stance.

Wow, I'm shocked at the backlash. I, for one, would like to commend you on an excellent choice. It is time to forget about race, gender and politics and try to come together for what it is we all have in common and I truly believe Obama will do his best to accomplish that. I have been his supporter since the beginning. As much as I would LOVE to see a woman president, I cannot bring myself to support Clinton simply because she is female. She is a politician and tied to special interests. I will send a donation in support of your brave and wonderful decision.

There is only one candidate in this race who has been a champion for reproductive rights. As an attorney, a First Lady and a Senator, Hillary Clinton has fought for our rights. She's even stuck her neck out on issues like working to defeat California's parental notification initiative - something a Senator from New York didn't have to do.

If you weren't going to wait until there was a nominee, then you should have endorsed the candidate with the strongest record on women's reproductive rights - and we all know that is Hillary Clinton.

Your timing and decision are an insult to those of us who have always fought with every last breath for justice.

I cannot believe how socially irresponsible this organization is. How can you possibley think that your advocating for women when you make a decision that could divide the women’s movement for years to come? I am so fundamentally repulsed by your decision. I am absolutely stunned at how thoughtless and irresponsible your decision making is regarding this matter. The founders of the women’s movement everywhere suffer a serious set back today when their own sisters attempt to destroy them. If you think that this is going to help our cause, you are clueless. I can’t believe you’ll cut your throats and those of all the women out there who have supported you, including Senator Clinton, just to get on the bandwagon of the male candidate who has no personal insight whatsoever what it feels like to have the federal government regulate his body. How dare you attempt to destroy what so many of us have worked so hard to create. The founders of the women's movement roll in their graves today. I never thought I would see the day when an organization, founded by women for women, actually had the chance to support the most qualified candidate for president and SHE happened to be a women and yet, they chose the male for no justifiable reason whatsoever. I'm speechless. This has already been a rough week for women in that Obama supporter Steven Cohen assaulted Hillary with his violent rhetoric and then this. Wow, what a sad week for women in this country.

I am very disturbed that NARAL would choose this moment to endorse a candidate; why not choose at the beginning of the race? Why not wait till it's over? This seems a strange move at a strange time... unless your intent is to sway voters in the remaining primaries, which seems very immoral.

Additionally, the "Pro-choice, Pro-Obama" ad implies that if you're pro-choice you can't be pro-Clinton, which is obviously, patently untrue. Endorse whomever you'd like, but do it at the appropriate times and don't imply that the other candidate isn't pro-choice.

I am surprised and truly disappointed that NARAL would endorse Senator Obama before the primary race is over, turning its back on a woman who has worked for decades for women's civil and reproductive rights, and whohas spoken out consistently and strongly for women throughout this campaign.

I am further disappointed that your announcement completely avoided answering the most obvious question of why a pro-choice organization would turn its back on the strongest pro-choice candidate. From a strategic perspective, there should be nothing keeping NARAL from fighting McCain now, when there is no Democratic candidate. To me it speaks of choosing political opportunism over a firm commitment to the issues.

You owe your supporters, many of whom you know to support Senator Clinton, a much better explanation than the anemic one offered above.

I have just unsubscribed myself from your email lists...I want nothing to do with anyone that can support Obama. Senator Clinton is a woman for pete's sake...No, I can not be a part of your organization with a slap in the face like that...with an Obama endorsement you will lose half if not all your female subscribers...dumb move!

I am disturbed that your organization would endorse a candidate in this highly contested nomination.

You have just alienated millions of people. What the hell were you thinking?

How could you risk such an important mission?

Obviously, you are not as committed to your mission as I believed. My family is canceling our support immediately.

TIMING IS EVERYTHING. PERHAPS YOU DON'T WATCH THE NEWS OR READ THE PAPERS. SENATOR CLINTON IS STILL IN THE RACE. SHE IS ALSO UNDER CONSIDERATION FOR VIDE-PRESIDENTIAL POSITION BY MANY WITHIN THE PARTY.SOMETIMES ITS BEST TO JUST KEEP YOUR MOUTH SHUT...OR JUST WAIT A WHILE. NOW, YOU ARE LOOKING LIKE A BUNCH OF BACK-STABBING FEEBLE-MINDED NITWITS. YOU WILL NEVER GET ANOTHER PENNY OUT OF ME. SHAME ON ALL OF YOU! YOU HAVE PROBABLY CUT YOUR SUPPORT IN HALF AND DIMINISHED WOMEN EVERYWHERE!!!!

THANK YOU NARAL!!! I am so proud to be a member of an organization who has the bigger picture in mind - we NEED A PRO-CHOICE PRESIDENT! and Hillary is not going to get there, nor would she be a unifying force in the white house. We need a unifying leader who represents the majority of Americans who believe in some form of reproductive choice.

What kind of donation did you receive from the Obama camp that led to this endorsement? Can’t you see the bigger picture? He is buying everyone – new kind of politics?

Stand by those who stand by you.

I am so disappointed, this is beyond betrayal.

Thank you, NARAL, for choosing Sen. Obama: the most viable candidate. I'm a long-time donor to several pro-choice causes, NARAL included.

I don't only support Sen. Obama because of his views, but also because of how he's run his race. The two candidates' records, in terms of choice, are both excellent. It's really a matter of how the candidate relates to the public and how they conduct themselves within their campaigns.

Again, thank you, NARAL, for your insight.

Sincerely,

Elise MacDonald
New Ipswich, NH

NARAL could not wait 3 weeks, nor could you consult your members? This is an ill-considered decision. Obama touted his endorsement by Laurence Tribe (yes, the anti-ERA warhorse) in his first commercials here in Texas. The best anyone can say of Obama is that he is insensitive or uneducated about feminist issues; clearly he is uninvolved. And, to borrow a phrase from the Civil Rights era: "If he isn't part of the solution --- he's part of the problem!" NARAL does not speak for me on this issue. I am deeply offended.

This was my letter to OBAMA supporter Congressman Steven Cohen who earlier this week compared Hillary to a murderous psychopath for staying in the Democratic race. Wow, NARAL, what are you thinking?

Mr. Cohen,

I am writing you in response to your comments about Hillary Clinton. I feel compelled to write you regarding the situation. I am truly shocked that any elected official would use such an offensive and violent analogy to describe Senator Clinton’s willingness to allow all the voters to have a say in this election. Please note that there are almost 16 million voters who have said via their vote that they would prefer that Senator Clinton win the primary election. There is no way that she can win unless she continues to run the race. Sixteen million of us support her decision to do so. She owes it to us to continue this race until it’s over.

That said, when you make derogatory comments like the ones you made yesterday about Senator Clinton, you are essentially making those comments about all of her supporters. Your statements were completely out of line and inexcusable. There is no justification for your violent analogy. I am reminded of a comment made by Trent Lott a few years ago and the response that ensued. I would say that your comments were equally, if not more offensive considering the circumstances in which both were delivered. Senator Clinton deserves more respect. I believe you issued an apology because you knew you had to do so in order to avoid further consequence. Yet, the violent undertone of your comments would suggest that you certainly do not feel respectful or even tolerant of Senator Clinton. I do not feel that your apology addresses the larger underlying issue of violence against women, which your comments so clearly reflect. Comments like those serve to perpetuate the prevalent, albeit often unacknowledged belief that violence against women is not only acceptable, but somehow solicited and accordingly justified. Thank you for taking the time to read my concerns.

Sincerely,

Keisha Long

You've been added to the list of organizations to which I will never give another dime. We need real change from real people, not empty rhetoric and nothingness. Shame on you for acting solely based on fear. Goodbye.

UNBELIEVABLE! How could you? How could you put your support behind someone that has minimal experience versus 30 years!!! Count me out as a member of your organization. It's not about gender (although this is a woman's issue) it's about who can really stand up for us? SHAME SHAME SHAME You should have stood behind someone that has stood behind you for so many decades!!!

Like the many women who have written in this comment space, I too am deeply disappointed by this decision to endorse Obama rather than Clinton. Democrats lose more often than needed because of complete lack of strategic thinking. Clinton, not Obama, has won virtually all of the GENERAL ELECTION "must have" and swing states by considerable margins. North Carolina, Georgia, Idaho, etc. are very likely to vote Republican in the general election...he hasn't come through where it has mattered most. SHE HAS. And, of course, how abysmal that this organization has turned its back on such a highly qualified, brilliant, dedicated woman. When do you think this is going to happen again? Not any time soon. How pathetic. It's very difficult to understand the rationale behind this. It's as if you've been listening to Republican propaganda rather than making thoughtful decisions. The more Clinton and Obamas names remain in the media spotlight, the more attention Democrats receive -- it's not a bad thing and it won't hurt the party. We all know things will be hugs and kisses at the convention and unity will be the theme. Again, how deeply disappointing. It matters that she's a woman. It matters that a woman speak out and represent the naral viewpoint. It matters that the president be a woman.

I am shocked that NARAL chose this moment to endorse anyone. Assuming that NARAL can decide who will be the Democratic nominee is a political novice faux pas. This type of ammo will be used by McCain.
I will no longer financially support NARAL.

"Big News"? I'll say. The only "news" here is that NARAL has completely lost its credibility and stands to lose considerable financial support from people like me who are outraged that NARAL would turn its back Senator Clinton, particularly before the nomination process is finished. Ingrates. What on earth is Obama's position on abortion and women's issues anyway? I have NEVER heard him talk about the subject. I strongly encourage NARAL to rescind its endorsement of Obama.

I am very disappointed in the choice NARAL has made. I will not only not support Obama in a general election, I won't support NARAL in the future either. For my money, if Obama is the Democratic candidate, I'll be voting for McCain. At least we know where he stands. I don't trust Obama, never have, never will. His words have not matched his actions or those of the people he supports.

Please remove me from any future mailings or requests for money or support.

Also adding my voice to the "absolutely disgusted" pile.

My own personal interest in Womens Reproductive Freedom ad protecting the fundamental right of people to choose if, when and how to create their own families extends to the issue of Infertility. My twin sons are the product of IVF/FET (frozen embryos). One only needs to look to Italy to see what happens to infertile couples when Government starts to legislate about "embryo rights".

Obama is no champion when it comes to these issues. He either votes the party line (or votes "present" when the issues get too politically divisive as part of a strategy).

This is a sad, sad, sad day for Women's Rights and Reproductive Freedom when we have to cast aside the true champion and replace her with a hollow suit of rhetoric and equivocation.

He doesn't even deem these issues important enough to list them as "Issues" on his campaign website. Half the population has been relegated to the "People / Women" section.

We deserve better than Barack Obama. What a cop-out NARAL.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=n3iHr1IYWUk&feature=related

"On one hand, we have Sen. Obama—who has been a fully pro-choice ally from day one and whom women can trust." GOOD GRIEF.

Day One was only 36 months ago...you have a short memory! Hillary has supported this cause for Decades.

NO MORE DONATIONS FROM ME!!!

I agree with the last poster.

Most of you woman seem to have forgotten this is about Women's reproductive rights... NOT about Hilary getting in the white House. At this point Obama looks to be the stonger choice and we shouls stand behind him strongly and make sure that out rights stay in place!

How dare you say you want to get off the mailing list and get your money back? This ISN'T about you. It's about the woman that will be coming after you.

I cannot believe it! This endorsement of a candidate who has done nothing to very little for a woman's right to chose tells me that there are other forces at work in this decision, and these are forces that I do not trust. I have been a long time supporter and contributor. Never Again! Isn't that your motto? Well now it applies to NARAL. This thoughtless and poorly made decision tells me that NARAL is an organization that makes poor judgements and does not stand on principle. By endorsing Obama NARAL is participating in promoting this manufactured candidate that is all about image without any substance. He is the Democrats' version of George Bush complete with the Karl Rove campaign dirty tricks. He has no record to rely on on abortion rights matters. What's more Obama will not be able to beat John McCain. So much for our hope for a decent Supreme Court appointee by the next president. Shame on NARAL. You are no longer one of us.

"On one hand, we have Sen. Obama—who has been a fully pro-choice ally from day one and whom women can trust." GOOD GRIEF.

Day One was only 36 months ago...you have a short memory! Hillary has supported this cause for Decades.

NO MORE DONATIONS FROM ME!!!

I have been a long-time supporter of NARAL and just last week attended a fundraiser for Washington NARAL. However, I can no longer support your group since you have made the move to support Obama.

I'll simply echo the feedback from the other posts you've received - I'm disturbed and appalled that you have sold-out so soon and turned your back on Hillary Clinton who has been one of your strongest supporters.

Why are you selling out so soon? It seems like a very strange decision and one that saddens me deeply. As one of the posters said, this is indeed a sad week for women.

Good Luck! You now have a long and hard road to climb.

Not another DIME from me or my house hold.... we are two mature gay men who support women's rights totally.... and for your organization to turn on a woman is unforgiveable ! I'm 65 and my partner is 76, and in our life time... we've never seen a Candidate so qualified and so destined to be our President.... unlike the person you've chosen to endorse, who is obviously not ready and much too inexperienced !

Check your comment section... 95% of them are against this descision !

I simply can't believe this.... talk about jumping on the band wagon and believing all the crap the media dishes out....

Hillary will be our next President.... and she'll continue to stand for equal rights for women, gays etc. I wonder how she'll feel about your organization now... ? Disgusted

I'm really shocked by the vitriol here. McCain is steadfastly anti-choice. The sooner the party unites behind Obmama's candidacy, the better our chances of ensuring McCain's defeat. Most people in the country mistakenly believe McCain is pro-choice. Correcting that erroneous belief is the real battle here, not hysterically soldiering on for Hillary in spite of insurmountable odds. If Obama loses in November, we ALL lose. Think about having to demand your rights back from a McCain stacked Supreme Court before you demand your money back from NARAL.

NARAL has lost my support with this choice. Obama's record on women's issues is unimpressive, and undeserving when compared with Clinton's impressive stance and experience. Yet, the most appalling aspect of this endorsement is that you have completely failed to recognize how many democrats have been engaged by these primaries--we are NOT failing to solidify our party, we are DRAWING DEMOCRATS OUT IN DROVES AND ENGAGING NEW DEMOCRATIC VOTERS IN THE PROCESS. I am thoroughly disappointed that NARAL has taken the status quo position of siding with Obama when practical experience tells us this extended primary is reaching out to more "new" democrats than ever before. Has NARAL lost the ability to question norms and demand independent thought and action?

ABSOLUTELY OUTRAGED! NARAL IS A BIG LOSER!

I am beyond shocked by your endorsement of Barack Obama—and cannot even begin to comprehend how your organization would not support a woman for President.

You will no longer be able to count on me for any future donations—ever.

I cannot believe that NARAL jumped the gun and turned its back on one of the most pro choice and pro women's issues candidates there has ever been, Hillary Clinton. What is wrong with you? You should have waited. Shame on you!!!! What happened did some big donation sway good judgement?

I am stunned and saddened.

This is the worst news of the day. Thank you for that, NARAL. The only reason I am not discontinuing my local (WA) membership is because I was told that the local bodies were not consulted.

After I write this I am quickly going to find the two little words" unsubscribe me" and click on them fast. As a non profit organization that counts on the contributions of many different people it is pure folly to choose one political candidate to support. You should have had the good sense to wait until after the democratic convention. Dummy! Too dumb to get another penny from me!

How could you? I am shocked and outraged. This is very dissapointing. How did NARAL come up with this? Was there a committee? If so, who was on that committee. As a "Single-Catholic-Mother-for-Choice" preparing to march in front of the White House during the March for Womens' Lives, in April 2004, who was it that inspired the marchers? It was Hillary Clinton! I was there and she was the one I saw. Shame on you for not consulting your supports.

I do not think NARAL should have endorsed anyone at this stage in the game.

Not Clinton and not Obama.

Let the people speak - talk about political pandering. Are you posturing to become the next "Super D's ("super delegates"). Right now, you guys look like "Super D's" alright -super dummies-for pulling this outrageous over the top stunt.

NARAL, you have really lost your way.

Peace,
Mary

correction: Like the many women and men.., I too am deeply disappointed.. And, as several said, betrayed. And, yes, I agree with them. Why give you money? You have utterly betrayed the cause.

I too am thoroughly disgusted with NARAL for announcing their support for Obama. Has not Hillary always been a strong supporter for choice, an issue Obama barely mentions. This action was totally unnecessary and very divisive. Why in the world do you want to offend much of your base who support Hillary?

I for one will never forgive NARAL, and have asked to be removed from their mailing lists. I will have to find another outlet for supporting women's rights.

You can take me off your e-mail list....how dare you endorse Obama over Hillary....you just set women back 20 years!! Congratulations.

too soon! I am also outrated

After working with this constitutional issue as a college student and professional for over 20 years, I am very upset to learn that NARAL may be endorsing Obama this afternoon. As a man, a conservative Democrat, a Catholic, and an activist, your decision to support Obama over Hillary Clinton is both insulting to me and damaging to the cause we have endured over the last 40 years.

NARAL's behavior (after the NH primary, the NY letter, the non-objection over Obama's record as a state legislator) over the last 6 months has been sloppy, at best. And your reckless endorsement will further irritate activists who questioned Obama for repeatedly not taking a stand while in the IL legislature. Side-stepping Hillary--who is unquestionably your most loyal and consistent advocate--for a candidate who can more easily be qualified as the media/blog/far-left liberal pundit's cat-nip is just horrible.

Shame on all of you. I'll never lift a finger for NARAL again. I'll just write letters on my own to US Senators.

You have really disappointed many, including myself. I sincerely hope you will reconsider. NOT FAIR! Isn't that what NARAL stands for? Fairness towards women!!!! Hillary is still in the fight just like many women who are fighting for their rights. PLEASE think about your decision and listen to what we are saying! Why couldn't you wait until the 'lady in the pant suit says it's over'?

I can't believe you wouldn't wait to endorse a Democratic candidate until he or she is chosen-- especially if both are pro-choice! Another couple months aren't going to make any difference to people who are dedicated to the pro-choice movement. Truly outrageous.

You will never ever get my support again. I can't believe you aren't endorsing a women for President are you a bunch of stupid ignorant women who prefer to be told what to do by a man. He is so Republican in his leanings and plans to go across the aisle to make friends with the Republicans which in I my book means he isn't pro-choice at all. I don't even think he is truly a democrat. I think this he is absolutely the worse candidate - he's not a presidential candidate he thinks he's a rock star for goodness sake. I hope this doesn't nothing to deter the strong woman that Hilary Clinton is and I can only assume you are a bunch of rich bitches.

Sincerely,

Antoinette L. Cook

I am heartbroken by this inexplicable rush to support Obama, even before the Democratic party has selected its nominee. Hillary Clinton has been a lifelong advocate for women, children, and families -- why were you unwilling to allow her the courtesy of waiting until after the nominating convention to throw NARAL's support behind Obama?

When the general election comes round, I'll vote for the pro-choice nominee (NOT McCain). But that doesn't mean I've already given up on Hillary Clinton. Shame on you for abandoning so many NARAL members who feel exactly the same way I do.

It is a shame that you would not endorse Ms. Hillary. I will not longer support NARAL. For NARAL to turn it's back on Ms. Hillary is shamefull as she has supported you for years. Keep in mind that the nomination process is not finished yet and now you have backed a loser and lost many of your supporters.

EJECT, EJECT, EJECT

Kudos for NARAL reaching across the X/Y chromosome aisle and endorsing the obvious Democratic standard-bearer, Barack Obama. Let's work hard to defeat McCain and his anti-choice ideas in November!

I was so disappointed to see this email in my in box that you have endorsed Obama. While I will support either candidate, I do not believe that an endorsement now for Obama does anything but act as a slap in the face to Hilary Clinton who has worked tirelessly for her entire life for women and pro choice. This endorsement should not have been made until a candidate was chosen and you should be working against MCCain on behalf of both candidates at this time. Shame on you for this endorsement at this time. I will remove myself from your mailing list. I strongly resent NARAL taking this action at this time! It was a bad executive decision and only serves to alienate women! Hello, is anyone home?

If NARAL is basing its decision to endorse Obama based on his ability to win the general election, think again.

Progressive people have terrible memories. Obama has the same coalition of voters that supported McGovern, Mondale, Dukakis, Gore, and Kerry. He will lose just as badly or much worse than they did.

Furthermore, Obama is not progressive. He has aligned himself with anti-gay and anti-choice forces throughout his campaign.

Hillary is the only pro-choice candidate that can beat McCain, and has a long history of fighting for women and women's reproductive rights.

NARAL has completely lost my support, and I am disgusted with this endorsement.

It's clear that I can now cross NARAL off the list of causes I will support. I am beyond disgusted at this endorsement, which makes no sense in terms of timing, or in terms of the candidates' records. What a sad precedent for what future pro-choice candidates might expect from NARAL, to be sloughed off if a shiny new candidate comes along with better PR.

Please remove me from your mailing lists.

I too am shocked that you would turn your back on a woman who has fought this battle her entire life. Do not expect to see another dime from me. My pro-choice dollars will find another home.

I am extemely disappointed with this announcement. I cannot believe you are ignoring the best person to be our next President. We have a chance to change history and you have blown it in your endorsement of obama and yes the non capitalization of the name is deliberate. I will support Hillary till the bitter end !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

i believe for naral , the usa and the world hillary is a far superior choice. amazing to me you cant figure that out. who did you consult with???

I cannot believe you have endorsed anyone before the primaries are finished. What was the point? Nothing was gained except you slighting a person who has worked harder than any of the good ole boys to get where she is today. Nothing would have been lost by your having held off until there is a declared nominee. As women, I think we all know that the standards we are held to are higher than for the men in equal positions. I never thought that a group like NARAL that purports to be for women's rights would follow that same route. I am very dissappointed and will seriously reconsider my support for NARAL.

Thank you for your enlightened endorsement of Senator Obama. I always perceived NARAL as only representing the interest of white women of a certain class. I suppose this proves me wrong. How do I make a contribution?

As a long-time supporter of abortion rights, including various marches on Washington, including teaching about choice at a Catholic university, I cannot believe what I have just heard on CNN--that NARAL has endorsed Obama. What treachery, what perfidy! Hillary has always stood with pro-choice forces; Obama voted present, thus avoiding a vote on choice, in the Illinois Senate. I never want to hear from NARAL again--not asking for money, not asking me to attend an event. If McCain gets elected you can forget about Roe v. Wade and NARAL will have helped make that happen.

Please take me off your list. I will never contribute to NARAL again. This was a betrayal of so many pro-choice women who have worked so hard for Hillary Clinton and a very stupid move on the part of the leaders of NARAL. Where was the great pro-choice leader Obama in 2004 when we marched on Washington in great numbers? I was there and Senator Clinton was there. He was not.

Wow!

I am so sorry you folks are taking so much heat from those you have provided support for. There are no words to describe the comments of many people here - not least of whom is Deanna above - which do not cause further grief, so I will leave my statement as is.

You have my family's thanks for realizing this issue is more than a gender thing. My son is no less involved in the rights and responsbilities of parenthood than my daughters, I am no less concerned with their welfare and freedoms than my wife. To "gender-fy" the issue of parental responsibility beyond the immutable (so far, let's see what science brings...) facts of biology is to distance men from their shared duty to protect the rights of their sisters, daughters, wives and mothers - and their responsibility to their own choices about bringing children into the world.

Senator Obama is a strong advocate of Choice and will protect Roe v. Wade through his actions and appointments to the Supreme Court in ways we cannot depend on a Republican administration to do.

You have done the right thing.

-best

-chris

Thank you, NARAL.

I am a woman, a Southerner. I'm sixty years old, with three daughters and three granddaughters I adore. I grew up in the back-alley, cheap motel abortion, when women died or found themselves damaged, unable to have children due to sepsis or botched procedures. I want my girls safe; I want them to have the freedom to choose when to have children and to determine how many children they want to have. I do not want my government which, under GOP leaderhsip says they'll "get government off our backs", invading my uterus. Or anyone else's.

I also want a president who doesn't view the Oval Office as the front in an unfinished war from the '90s. As much as I liked the Clintons, that fight has been fought--and it cost us a clear, indisputable win in 2000. I want change. I want a statesman in the White House--and one who's pro-choice.

You've endorsed him.

I notice a lot of heated comments about Obama being bad on women's issues. I thought this might be of help. I have used it for a while, and unlike information sent out by ANY campaign, it's low on spin.

http://www.votesmart.org/election_president.php

One thing that it doesn't include is a primer on how voting works. For most bills, pro- an contra- sides have their votes counted up. They know if they need a vote badly, in which case people will run, drive, fly in to vote...or if there's a safe pad of votes, in which case they don't call people in.

As a result, someone can vote "present" (or not vote) and still be doing EXACTLY what they need to be doing. That's why groups select a subset of bills and rate elected officials on those bills.

Otherwise, people would introduce bills just to tie someone down by introducing legislation full of buzz-words, so they had to vote on it ("No gay marriage between illegal alien abortion-providers"-type bills.)

Again, cut through the hype and recognize that Obama has shown a long-term commitment to women's issues in general, and to birth control and abortion access in specific.

I am disappointed and disgusted at the endorsement. Hillary Clinton has worked all her life for women and reproductive choice. If NARAL was not going to endorse her, it should have shut up until there is a nominee. After all, either of them would work against McCain, and NARAL has no business getting in there trying to force this quality candidate, Hillary Clinton, out of the race. It also is wholly against NARAL's self-interest to alienate all the Clinton supporters that NARAL needs. What a stupid move!
I'll be in there working for the Democratic nominee, but I'm out of NARAL as of now. PLEASE REMOVE ME FROM YOUR E-MAIL AND MAILING LISTS.

NARAL you have abandoned one of your most basic functions - to stand with those that FIGHT for Women's Rights and Reproductive Freedom. While Senator Obama votes the right way - he has never taken a leadership role. This makes me incredibly sad.

Are you women nuts? I am a single mom and work my butt off everyday to get where I'm at, and certainly want NO one like Obama representing me!!!!

I am appalled that the leadership of NARAL has decided to turn it's back on Senator Clinton for Senator Obama. NARAL has a responsibility to stand up for the reproductive rights of women and yet the leadership has chosen an inexperienced, untested candidate who has never stood for or with this organization and it's goals. I am absolutely disgusted with NARAL, and will NEVER donate, march, or do anything to support it again. No wonder reproductive rights are in such peril!

Thank you, NARAL, for your courage. I am sure this was a difficult decision, because both Senator Clinton and Senator Obama fully support a woman's right to choose. It appears that those who have posted negative comments are, sadly, thinking that only a woman should represent them. On the contrary, what is needed at this point is to put our support behind the candidate who can unite the country, and can reach across ideological divides to convince more Americans of the essential justice inherent in reproductive rights. That candidate is clearly Barack Obama. I am very proud to be a member of NARAL and I am sending you (another) check to show my support at this time.

As a 40-something feminist I salute and thank you for this endorsement of Barack Obama! With all due respect to Hillary Clinton, this race is over and it is time to rally around the Democratic nominee and focus on defeating John McCain. Thanks again!

Well, you've lost me as a supporter. How short sighted can you be? Remove me from your lists!
Obama may be a decent person...I don't know...but Hillary stands up for women and is by far the better candidate. You've been blinded by the light.

First I was shocked, then disappointed, and now I'm angry ... how could you choose to back Obama over Hillary? Are you as out of touch with the women/issues in America as McCain is with the population at large?!!!

As a Pro-Choice woman who has volunteered significant time to acting as an Escort at our local clinic, I am devastated with your decision.

You can take me off your list. You should be ashamed.

I am disappointed indeed that you've bailed out on the first viable woman candidate for the U.S. Presidency, one who has been standing up for women's rights for many years. As I read the comments above, I think you may have made a bad strategic mistake here.

Well, I came to the website to add what I expected to be a minority opinion lambasting your decision, only to find that there are still plenty of right-minded, progressive feminists who have already expressed their outrage at what can only be described as a betrayal to the community.

I don't believe that Sen. Clinton should have been endorsed because she's a woman. I believe she should have been endorsed because she's been a life-long advocate for the very issues you claim to advocate. I'm disturbed when I hear a candidate (particularly a straight male candidate) refer to issues like gender equality, abortion and family planning rights, and sexual orientation issues as "distractions from the REAL issues facing Americans." Yet, this is who you chose to throw your hat in the ring for?

I hope that your board of directors thought through this decision and can afford the money that you will be losing by issuing such a poorly timed, anti-woman endorsement. And I hope that Obama has written you a huge check to make up for it. Next time I get a mailer asking for money, I'll simply return it with a vote of "present" to note my disassociation with Naral.

I am stunned. You too? Of all the organizations I have ever supported, I would not have believed that you would abandon Hillary this way. I will NEVER send you another dime.