Abbott Strategist Calls Rape and Incest A “Minor Issue” Continues A Republican Pattern of Making Light of Rape and Insulting Survivors

AUSTIN, TX – Yesterday, Abbott strategist Matt Mackowiak appeared on Lone Star Politics and dismissed the experiences of survivors of rape and incest, saying that their constitutionally protected right to access safe and legal abortion was a “minor issue.” Upon insulting Texas survivors by saying their experiences don’t matter, he then added that Greg Abbott would “love to fight the campaign on that issue alone.” Greg Abbott believes that abortion should be illegal, even in cases of rape or incest.

This latest insult continues a pattern where political candidates and operatives make light of the issue of rape during election cycles. Despite that particular pattern proving fatal to several previous campaigns, the Abbott campaign has not learned that minimizing the pain of survivors of rape is offensive and alarming to all voters.

Statement from Yvonne Gutierrez, Executive Director of Planned Parenthood Texas Votes:

“Making light of the experiences of survivors of rape and incest for political gain is downright disgusting. That Abbott’s strategist argues that abortion should be illegal, even in cases of rape or incest, because he thinks rape and incest are “minor issues” is demeaning and offensive.

No survivor of rape or incest would call their experience a “minor issue.” This is exactly why politicians should not be allowed to dictate their personal opinions upon women’s decisions and lives. And this is why Greg Abbott’s campaign and policies present a serious threat to the safety of Texas women.”

WATCH: Abbott Strategist Calls Rape and Incest A “Minor Issue”