Ireland praised the Nashville physician's successes in addressing teen pregnancy and sharply criticized efforts by the right wing to derail Foster's nomination. Since being nominated by President Clinton in early February, Foster has been the target of intense criticism from right wing extremists and anti-abortion foes who question his performing legal abortions as part of his obstetrics practice. Ireland leveled her own criticism at those who are using Foster's performance of legal abortions as grounds for disqualifying him from public office. We are very concerned about the attacks against Dr. Foster that are based on the fact that he has performed abortions during his career. Abortion is a legal medical procedure and access to these services is still a constitutionally protected right in this country.
Abortion is a medically appropriate procedure under a variety of circumstances.
If Dr. Foster had not performed any abortions during his 38-year career, we would question whether he had provided appropriate medical care to his patients. The idea that the performance of abortions should be a disqualifier for public office is very dangerous for the future of women's health. We believe this line of attack contributes to the current climate of anti-abortion intimidation, harassment and violence and reduces women's access to necessary medical care. In an interview printed in the March 28 issue of USA Today , Foster said he found it ironic that his work fighting teen pregnancy has been overshadowed by controversy from anti-abortion foes. But my life's work has been dedicated to making sure that young people don't have to face the choice of having abortions.