SoCal Planned Parenthood hosts ‘Bans Off Our Bodies’ rally to guarantee abortion rights in state constitution

Proposition 1 will be on your ballot this year. It will decide whether or not to put the right to an abortion and contraception into the state constitution. And it's not just a ballot question, it's also a campaign issue for local candidates. 

Pro-choice advocates held a rally in Palm Desert to support Prop 1's passage. Supporters included the Planned Parenthood Action Fund of the Pacific Southwest.

"We want to make sure that in California, no matter what the political party might be that is in power, access to abortion and access to contraception will always be the law of the land," said community organizer and health advocate for Planned Parenthood Action Fund of the Pacific Southwest, Karen Borja.

The regional Planned Parenthood is endorsing Palm Springs councilmember Christy Holstege in her drive to earn a seat representing Assembly District 47.

"It could be unclear if abortion is legal in California and so we want to say the words abortion and birth control to make sure they're protected in the California Constitution," said Holstege.

Holstege also filmed campaign content at the rally. She has made access to reproductive healthcare a key issue in her campaign criticizing her opponent Republican Greg Wallis.

"When asked his position on abortion, wishy-washy Wallis said we're gonna have to wait and see. Even though he was endorsed by an anti-abortion organization," said one of Holstege's campaign ads.

News Channel 3 asked Wallis his position on abortion earlier this year:

“That’s something that you know is appropriate for legislators to take a look at," said Wallis.

Wallis has criticized Holstege on other fronts

“So many in our community are struggling and politicians like Christie hostage, keep making things worse," said Wallis's ad campaign.

Statement in response from Greg Wallis:

“I believe that as far as government is concerned, a woman’s right to choose should be protected up until viability, with reasonable exceptions after. California is a pro-choice state and the right to choice will be protected. Generally, I think California has to do better across the board on issues which impact women and children: require equal pay for women, make childcare more affordable for everyone, and improve our K-12 schools, which are 44th in the nation.”

As the campaign season continues it’s clear: This November California voters will face decisions on abortion issues both on Prop 1 and in campaigns.

"We're making sure that folks understand what Proposition 1 will do and what it will protect, which is access to abortion and contraception," said Borja.