That seems to be Smith’s opponent, Howard Kleinhendler’s goal as the November elections near- expose some of Smith’s opinions that will make almost anybody shake their head in disbelief.
In an interview with New Jersey Jewish News back in September, Kleinhendler discussed Smith’s controversial opinion that any kind of birth control (including the pill) should be illegal. He told NJ Jewish News that Smith was “totally off-the-charts in trying to criminalize birth control, so much so that even in his human rights work he has opposed HIV/AIDS programs in Africa because they include distribution of condoms. That is a terrible mistake.”After reading that (and doing a little research of my own just to make sure this was accurate) I regret every interning for Christopher Smith.
As someone who recently visited several countries in Africa and seen first hand the destruction that HIV/AIDS has caused, it’s disgusting to me that Smith would argue that condom use is not affective or moral.
But what does that say about me that I didn’t know, despite interning for him, that this is the way Smith thought, until after I read the article in NJ Jewish News? How many other people in the district don’t know this about the man they have continued to vote into office?
Kleinhendler’s chance of defeating Smith may be slim, but his campaign strategy is on point- make Smith look bad. And at least for one voter come November, he did a good job.
This does sound like a concerning issue. In contemporary society with all kinds of diseases spreading, the use of condoms and other contraceptives are definitely necessary. I guess it goes to show how ignorant most of us are to Congressional candidates and research is beneficial before stepping into the voting booth.
ReplyDeleteThis is definitely a controversial issue that could break Smith's streak in office. Personally, i think that it is appalling that anyone could be against condom distribution after visiting Africa and seeing how HIV/AIDS has destroyed so many lives. I also think that being against all birth control (condoms, pills, etc)is an extreme and violates a person's rights. His efforts to illegalize birth control should not be an issue that is taken lightly and should be something voters think about before casting their votes on election day.
ReplyDeleteSmith's stance on contraceptives is not only appauling but it is completely unrealistic. Despite the many religious reasons that people may hold against using birth control and condoms, Smith needs to think on a broader level and step outside of his own box in order to portray himself as the most suitable candidate to represent this district. Taking a position on issues is one thing, but making such bold statements about infamously controversial issues can ruin a politician's career. Maybe this district has many voters who are also against using birth control [etc.] but it is unnecessary and dangerous to portray yourself to this extreme.
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