Rep Laurie Pohutsky's Sterilization Decision Sparks Political Debate
Rep. Laurie Pohutsky disclosed her voluntary sterilization decision at a Michigan rally, sparking political controversy regarding reproductive rights under the Trump administration.
The shocking admission by Rep. Laurie Pohutsky, 36, was made during a rally at the Michigan Capitol where protesters voiced their opposition to Trump's return to power last month.
"Just under two weeks ago, I underwent surgery to ensure that I would never have to navigate a pregnancy in Donald Trump's America," Pohutsky said, according to the Michigan Advance.
"I refuse to let my body be treated as currency by an administration that only sees value in my ability to procreate."
"If you know people who are questioning how serious this is, I'm going to repeat myself: A sitting government official opted for voluntary sterilization because she was uncertain she would be able to access contraception in the future," she told the outlet.
Pohutsky, who represents the state's 17th District, which includes a part of Detroit, is serving her fourth term in office.
As furor spread across social media over Pohutsky's speech Thursday, the Democrat stood by her remarks.
"The fact that so many conservative men take personal offense to a decision that I made with my husband about my health care and future just proves the point that we shouldn't assume that right is secure," she posted on social media.
The Post has sought comment from the legislator.
Trump, 78, has said in the past he wants the issue of abortion left to the states; Michigan allows abortion with no limits after state voters enshrined the right in the state constitution in 2022, according to a New York Times tracker.
The 47th president signed an executive order last month reinstating policies that ensured government monies would not go toward funding or promoting elective abortions, according to the White House. He also signed a memorandum that reinstated a policy that would stop funds for supporting abortion overseas.
The Republican has previously made clear he would not advocate for restrictions on contraception after he appeared to suggest the possibility in an interview last May.
GOP state Rep. Brad Paquette slammed Pohutsky for the public disclosure.
"She very well knows that President Trump can not take away her ability to abort her unborn baby here in Michigan," he posted on X.
"Publicly announcing the destruction of her reproductive system to further misinformation for political gain must be condemned by all. In no way should any political leader promote self harm, especially to promote blatant falsehoods."
