Washington Post story. Information: Marj Signer, 202-341-5559 or Katherine Ely, 202-306-5415
Statement of Marj Signer, Virginia NOW President
April 22, 2008--Candidate Gerry Connolly’s use of NOW’s logo in a new mailing - which states that Connolly has “always stood with women” - is disrespectful to Virginians who have fought for women’s rights and misleading to voters. Virginia NOW members who have fought for the ERA and abortion rights for more than 30 years have no recollection of Connolly being publicly engaged in the women’s rights movement in Northern Virginia. We are deeply concerned that voters will think Connolly has the national NOW PAC’s endorsement, which he does not. 

The national NOW PAC has endorsed Leslie Byrne in the race for the Democratic nomination in the 11th Congressional District because she has championed women’s rights for decades. We know that we can count on Leslie Byrne to fight for fair and equitable economic and social policies for women, men and families as a Member of Congress.

In the mailing, Connolly states he has “always fought for women’s rights” and specifies those as the ERA, abortion, and pay equity. A photo showing NOW’s logo and placard “Keep Abortion Legal” occupies the top third of the page. Connolly’s campaign did not talk to NOW about using the photo. 

We welcome Connolly’s interest and support and ask that he clarify his record and his current positions so we can work together. We are particularly encouraged by the statement in the mailing that he would support a federal law to ensure abortion rights at the state level if Roe v. Wade is overturned and would like to know more about his plans to do so.