Rep. Pohutsky speaking at the podium.
LANSING, Mich., June 21, 2024 — From the national level to the state level, there has been a striking and consistent theme of violence against women among members of the Republican party. In contrast, House Democrats have been steadfast in their commitment to protect women from harm, including sexual assault, gun violence and domestic abuse. Underscoring this commitment, Speaker Pro Tempore Laurie Pohutsky (D-Livonia), chair of the Progressive Women’s Caucus, issued the following statement:
“Allegations of assault and the recent reports of impending felony charges against a member of the House Republican Caucus follow a disturbing pattern of violence against women by Republicans. Not only is the party’s platform a direct assault on the rights of women, but Michigan Republicans have also been accused of domestic violence, and recent media reports allege that one now faces charges of physical and sexual assault. Even more disturbing is the deafening silence from Republican leaders who have failed to denounce the alleged actions of their colleagues.
“By contrast, House Democrats have led on ensuring access to reproductive care, passing laws to help reduce gun violence in our communities and our state, and delivered legislation to the governor’s desk that prohibits those convicted of domestic violence from buying or owning a gun. Violence against women cannot be tolerated and those who would target and abuse women must be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”
According to RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network), one out of every six American women has been the victim of an attempted or completed sexual assault in her lifetime. On average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States, according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.
Those experiencing domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-7233.
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