WS Chronicle

To the Editor:

The Republican effort to take away healthcare for millions of Americans and defund Planned Parenthood is expected to “come back and bite” them next fall, and Richard Burr is high on the list of Senators whose reelection prospects grew dimmer as he voted against thousands of North Carolinians who rely on the health services he sought to dismantle.

Burr also opposed a measure to close the terrorist gun loophole, which would have prevented anyone listed on the terrorist watch list from buying firearms, and said no to middle class tax relief among other things.

‘If this is what the Republicans have in mind when they say ‘‘we’re back to work,’’ then for the sake of women and families across the country, please take a break,’ said Lauren Passalacqua, DSCC [Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee] National Press Secretary. ‘… Richard Burr made it clear that he prioritizes special interests and corporations over women’s healthcare, the safety of our communities and pretty much anything else that would help the middle class.’

Here’s a recap of his most damaging votes:

Defund Planned Parenthood

VOTED: YES

Defunding Planned Parenthood would hurt North Carolina’s 9 Planned Parenthood centers and more than 31,000 patients who rely on the clinics for basic health services like breast exams, Pap tests and contraception. When given the opportunity to strike the provision defunding Planned Parenthood, Burr voted no.

Close the Terrorist Gun Loophole

VOTED: NO

The amendment would have prevented terrorists or suspected terrorists from buying a gun or explosives.

Provide Tax Relief to the Middle Class

VOTED: NO

The amendment would have provided new tax cut for working families to keep more of what they earn and also help pay for child care.

Increase Veteran’s Access to Care & Improve VA Facilities

VOTED: NO

The amendment would have increased funding for veterans care, VA construction and hiring.

Protect Pregnant Women, Domestic Violence Victims & Cancer Patients from Tax Increases

VOTED: NO

The amendment would have protected a tax credit passed as a part of the ACA, protecting tax increases for vulnerable patients, including pregnant women, victims of domestic violence, people with cancer and Alzheimer’s, and stroke survivors.

Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee