Planned Parenthood debate stretches into late night

A feisty debate ensued on the House floor after Rep. Mike Pence (R-Ind.) offered an amendment to completely defund the pro-abortion rights organization Planned Parenthood.

“These health providers serve the underserved,” said Rep. Susan Davis (D-Calif.) “Planned Parenthood plays a crucial role in our nation’s healthcare system. I cannot let San Diego families lose these critical health services. I will not let that happen.”

But House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-Va.) came to the floor to defend the amendment.

“We all know money is fungible,” said Cantor. “Tax money is going to Planned Parenthood. It is freeing up money for abortion.”

“Planned Parenthood has been caught red-handed aiding and abetting prostitution and the sex-trafficking of minors,” added Cantor. “It is time to say no.”

Rep. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), also in support of the amendment, said the debate was just as much about money as preventing abortion.

“This is a debate about who pays,” said Blackburn. “No one is saying Planned Parenthood has to shut down or stop being an advocate for abortion. We are saying the American taxpayer should stop footing the bill.”