A central New York congressman, who has long supported Planned Parenthood, is calling for an investigation into the agency, in light of the videos showing Planned Parenthood officials apparently discussing how the group provides researchers body parts from aborted fetuses.
Rep. Richard Hanna, the 22nd District representative, says the videos are disturbing.
“I’ve asked for an investigation into this, and I think Congress will do one. My hope is that it’s deliberate, fair, thoughtful and inclusive.”
Hanna, a Republican, says he doesn’t support or condone the callous tone and detached emotional nature of the videos, adding that he wants to look at all the facts before joining fellow Republicans to vote to de-fund the agency.
“I want to look at the evidence. I want to sit back and wait till they do something thoughtful. It’s easy to join in on either side. But I think the rational, thoughtful way is to wait for the facts.”
In the past Hanna has consistently supported Planned Parenthood, the Hyde Amendment, which prohibits federal tax dollars from being spent on abortion services and a ban on late-term abortions.
He even won an award from the agency in 2012; and according to the Center for Responsive Politics, is the only Republican to get a campaign donation from Planned Parenthood last year.