Idaho state Sen. Bob Nonini, a Republican candidate for lieutenant governor, is attempting to walk back comments saying that he believes the death penalty could be a potential punishment for people who have abortions.
Nonini, a three-term state senator, made the comments at a candidate forum on Monday, the AP reported. “There should be no abortion and anyone who has an abortion should pay,” Nonini said.
From the AP:
Pressed by moderators on the nature of the punishment, Nonini nodded when asked if he supported the death penalty as a possible punishment for abortion.
According to the AP, he attempted to backtrack the comments hours later. He also posted a statement on Facebook writing, “Since abortion is murder, I believe we should consider penalties for individuals involved in these procedures. I NEVER said or agreed that the death penalty should be an option during the Monday debate at the Nuart theater.”
He made it very clear that he wants to see Roe v. Wade overturned because it “would allow states like Idaho to re-criminalize abortion as a deterrent.”
However, it is my understanding that in the history of the United States, long before Roe was foisted upon this country; no woman has ever been prosecuted for undergoing abortion,” he continued. “That is for practical reasons, as well as for reasons of compassion.”
What an interesting use of the word compassion.