Catholic Democrats Seek Room to Disagree With Church Teaching on Abortion

RNS’ Kevin Eckstrom reports on a statement of principles from 55 Catholic House Democrats in this week’s full-text article, linked above.

Quote:

The “statement of principles” resurrects a battle from the 2004 elections when some Catholic politicians-especially Democratic presidential nominee Sen. John Kerry-found themselves at odds with church leaders over their support of abortion rights.

and

The statement asked for room to disagree on abortion rights, which the church staunchly opposes. “In all these issues, we seek the church’s guidance and assistance but believe also in the primacy of conscience,” the statement said.