Abortion is one of the most difficult and divisive issues we face in our time. I understand that people of conscience can and do disagree very strongly.

I believe that life begins at conception and that the developing embryo is a unique human life.  That fundamental belief leads me to conclude that, even before birth, the unborn child is a person deserving of all the rights and equal protection afforded to any other person.
As an elected official I have supported and will continue to support state legislation that protects life.

The federal government and the courts should allow the citizens of the individual states to decide for themselves what laws they want to adopt to regulate abortion in their state. This is the policy that existed prior to Roe vs. Wade and the policy that should prevail again.
In the Senate I will support confirmation of justices to the Supreme Court who are strict constructionists, rather than jurists who are likely to stretch cases before them to legislate from the bench.

In running for the US Senate I will seek to remain steadfast in my beliefs while at the same time listening to all of the people of South Dakota.
 
I will always be honest with people about my positions and continue to treat all people with civility and respect.