Matthee will work to return our doctors

I am writing in support of the candidacy of Karen Matthee for Idaho state representative, District 1, Seat A.

I first met Karen one year ago at a meeting of the Pro Voice Project, a group that advocates for the rights of women in a post-Roe world. Karen immediately impressed me with her intelligence and concern for women’s health.

After Roe vs Wade was overturned, Idaho’s abortion laws were among the strictest in the country. Women are forced to continue dangerous or unviable pregnancies to term. Current restrictions are untenable and prevent the ability to provide adequate medical care. Physicians who perform an abortion for any reason commit a felony with possible prison time and loss of medical license. Bonner General Health closed its labor and delivery facilities and many OB-GYN physicians have since left the area for states with less restrictive laws. The departure of physicians has strained the medical system and compromised women’s reproductive freedom. There are also implications for women who are not pregnant but require gynecological care.

Karen is passionate about the need to bring our doctors back to protect the health of women as well as all Idahoans. As a published writer and journalist she will be an excellent fact checker and will provide the leadership necessary to find solutions.

Please join me and vote for Karen Matthee on Nov. 5.

ANN BERNTSEN

Sandpoint