Yesterday the House passed a nationwide 20-week abortion ban, but not before yet another Ignorant Legislator of the Week emerged. Arguing for why the ban should start earlier than 20 weeks, U.S. Representative Michael Burgess, a former OB/GYN, said “Watch a sonogram of a 15-week baby, and they have movements that are purposeful. They stroke their face. If they’re a male baby, they may have their hand between their legs. If they feel pleasure, why is it so hard to think that they could feel pain?” So is this science? A doctor/Senator saw a male baby touching himself and we have the “facts” to legislate what should be a medical decision? The bill is now headed to the Senate where it is expected to fail. Opponents say it is the most far-reaching abortion legislation in years and that it endangers those who may seek a late term abortion due to medical complications. This video of Burgess’ remarks from RH Reality Check may not be appropraite for work, although it is appropriate for the House floor.
