Head of Calif. Republican Assembly: Pregnancies by rape are rare 'because the body is traumatized'

[Newsjock]

Source: San Jose Mercury News

A leader of a California Republican group may have inadvertently revived the controversial subject of rape and pregnancy.

Before arriving at the state GOP's spring convention here, Celeste Greig told this newspaper that pregnancies by rape are rare "because it's an act of violence, because the body is traumatized."

Greig is the president of the conservative California Republican Assembly, the state's oldest and largest GOP volunteer organization. Ronald Reagan once called it "the conscience of the Republican Party."

... Said Assemblywoman Nancy Skinner, D-Berkeley: "It's just outrageous, beyond absurd. It's insulting. It's the same line of thinking of 'If we just dress differently, or behave differently, we won't be raped.' They're basically saying 'while we're being raped, if we hate it enough we won't get pregnant.'"

Read more: http://www.mercurynews.com/california-budget/ci_22701070/california-gop-leader-steps-into-rape-pregnancy-controversy

[oldhippydude]

1. Todd Akin ....He's back............n/t

[BlueMTexpat]

13. My first reaction to this as well!

There are too many Todd Akin clones in today's Republican party. Even more unfortunately, some of them are women.

[roguevalley]

14. I will personally contribute money

for the ticket of anyone who wants to go to California and kick him in the balls.

I have two bucks in my hand right now.

[Le Taz Hot]

23. No cojones on this one.

This one's a female.

[Demoiselle]

49. A well placed kick could still cause considerable pain. nt

[Stuart G]

58. A picture of the idiot is on the front page of Think Progress

She/yes she, is teamed up with another idiot..

http://thinkprogress.org/

Look at the first story on the page..titled:

California GOP Leader: Pregnancies Resulting From Rape Are Rare Because ‘The Body Is Traumatized’

You can see another stupid idiot on this subject.......

[brush]

33. Yep!

The female body has a way of shutting that whole thing down.

[Thinkingabout]

2. I would have once assumed people running for positions would be educated, now I wonder.

She obliviously did nit pay attention in class or fail biology miserably. Maybe all candidates should be given a basic test to see if they have the ability to understand simple subjects. I am sure I knew about pregnancy before I entered high school. I would be embarrassed to show i was so stupid to say what she has.

[Lordquinton]

22. Her

Kick her in the... I dunno what...

[xmas74]

37. In her babymaker.

Here in Missouri I wanted to kick Akin in his sack every single time I saw him on tv, heard him on the radio, etc. If Todd were a woman I'd want to kick her in her babymaker, as my friends used to say.

Let the equal opportunity kicking begin.

[Turbineguy]

26. Not the repubs

they are afraid of education. Education is a breeding ground for "ideas". Especially women are prone to getting "ideas". This must be avoided. A little education is OK. Hitting your thumb with a hammer leads to workmen's comp claims. This too must be avoided.

It's a fine line you must walk as a republican.

[Thinkingabout]

52. Oh, guess I was thinking again, forgot the repubs are into shielding their kids from real education.

Shame on me.

[SpartanDem]

54. This idea has floating in the anti-choice right for years

I' remember reading a story about this, the idea you can't get pregnant from or that's very rare has been used justify absolutist positions on abortion. In fact, there is a "scientific study" by a doctor stating as such that's been floating around anti-choice literature for close to 20 years. But they found quotes of anti-choicer statements even further back than that, Akin was just the first to cause a NATIONAL controversy.

[Lady Freedom Returns]

3. We need a law.

One that makes all republican politicians go back through biology 101!

[TheDebbieDee]

57. REPUKES should also be required to complete Economics 101........

So they could be enlightened to the fact that;

1) cutting government spending during a recession/depression only makes things worse

2) the government can and does create jobs in government as well as in the private sector (as a ripple effect)

3) once employment is increased and there are more revenue creators (taxpayers) the debt can/will be reduced

[Fortinbras Armstrong]

86. I've been saying for years that ignorance is encouraged by conservatives

And is positively required for libertarians.

[rppper]

4. Just keep 'em coming dumba$$es...

That's all we have too do is keep their mouths moving....it's like death and taxes that the "real" conservative will show up....

[Kalidurga]

5. Let's play make believe...

Like this person that thinks rape rarely causes pregnancies. If that were true what would it mean? That in the rare event it does happen the woman should still have to have to carry the pregnancy to term? This is truly a wtf situation. It doesn't matter if it is rare or frequent a woman should have access to an abortion and any services she needs to deal with the trauma of rape.

[niyad]

6. wow--I just looked at their website--they have ten vice presidents and five secretaries on

the board. and, of course, st. ronnie just LOVVVVVVED them.

[nadinbrzezinski]

7. The GOP in Cali is doing smashingly well

This is one reason. We cover local news...this is par.

[Coyotl]

8. If they didn't have conventions, the stupid virus wouldn't spread so much

Any bets, this guy went to a Republican convention?

[Comrade Grumpy]

9. In Sonoma County, a Republican is something you to find on a scavenger hunt.

This is just going to make it even harder.

[DisgustipatedinCA]

10. I love it.

Unfortunately, if you look at the comments section of PD articles, either there are some Republicans here or they're writing in from somewhere else.

[HangOnKids]

66. Oh Lord The Comments On The PD

Most ignorant fuckers on the planet.

[Initech]

11. Sick, sick, sick, sick. sick, sick.

[quakerboy]

12. Apparently

they hope if they just say it publicly and often enough, it will become common belief?

[awoke_in_2003]

15. Oh for fuck's sake...

What is wrong with these people?

[MAD Dave]

31. Stupid is a permanent disability......

You can educate the ignorant people. Concentrate your efforts on them.

[King_Klonopin]

83. "You can't fix stupid"

is a funny one-liner, but it isn't the truth.

You CAN fix stupid, but only if the person suffering from
"the stupid" is willing to seek treatment in the form of
open-minded edumacation and lurnin'.

Self-inflicted ignorance (SII) is hard to treat because it is
fact-resistant.

Self-inflicted republican ignorance (SIRI) is even harder to
treat because it is fact-resistant AND science-resistant.
The condition is usually chronic and terminal.

There is hope. Please, make a donation to:
SIIF / The Self-Inflicted Ignorance Foundation

Human Anatomy and Physiology. Check it out, baby!

[MAD Dave]

87. I would submit.....

........that a stupid person seeking education is not stupid but ignorant and looking to better themselves.

[King_Klonopin]

90. I agree

I was trying to be facetious about those folks who
choose to remain blissfully ignorant and repel any
info/facts that contradict their belief system. They
outnumber the stupid by a lot.

[Warren DeMontague]

16. keep yammerin', gents.

No, no, please, continue.

[ohheckyeah]

17. I believe this is a woman who said it.

I've never heard of a man named Celeste.

[Warren DeMontague]

18. sorry, allow me to correct: Keep yammering, ye cranial-rectal shitwits.

cranial-rectal shitwit being non-gendered.

[ohheckyeah]

20. Agree - somehow it's even more offensive

coming from a woman. She should know better.

[Warren DeMontague]

21. they probably thought they could get away with it, that way.

I mean, the reason they keep yammering on it at all is because the question exposes a giant friggin' moral crater in the middle of the anti-choice 'argument', such as it is.

They've pinned their entire philosophy on the idea that a fertilized egg is the same thing as a baby, but they don't want to come out and admit "yes, we want to force all women- we don't care if they're 13 yr. olds, rape victims, whatever- to stay pregnant whether they want to or not". They don't want to be seen as going after rape victims, but there's no way to implement their crazy fucking agenda without it. Even with a "rape exception" they'd be forcing women to go in front of strangers and prove that they "deserve" to be "allowed" an abortion.

So, if they can make this ridiculous argument that "rape victims don't really get pregnant", it avoids the whole swamp. Of course it's ridiculous from a scientific standpoint, but science ain't really the GOP's strong suit, is it?

In the meantime, I guess they haven't figured out that it's not exactly winning them votes.

[ohheckyeah]

56. Perfect

assessment of what's going on. Let's hope they talk this shit just before the next election.

[thucythucy]

89. Warren this is precisely it.

It's a classic example of trying to distort reality so as to conform to ideology, rather than acknowledging the reality and either admitting the implications of their "no exceptions" position, or changing that position.

They CAN'T change, no matter how many votes it costs then. To acknowledge reality would mean undermining their moral certitude, and we all know how allergic conservatives are to nuance, empathy, and data based policy in general.

[LisaLynne]

42. cranial-rectal shitwits...

is my new default insult! Thanks!

[LeftishBrit]

19. How utterly disgusting

At least they're showing people what they're like. Todd Akin ruined his political career in Missouri by saying something similar; and California, from what I know, is more liberal than Missouri.

But the thought that ANYONE in the 21st century thinks such things, ugh, ugh, ugh.

[sheshe2]

24. This comment, coming from a woman, is beyond the pale!

She is called "A leader of a California Republican group", now that is truly frightening!

[grantcart]

25. Just exactly how many moles do we have in the Republican Party?

It cannot be possible that any organized group of people have this many idiots.

[abelenkpe]

27. Shamefully ignorant woman. Nt

[mwb970]

28. Not this again.

Where do they GET this crap?

[TxDemChem]

29. I wasn't going to share my story at first

But as this shit keeps happening, and rethugs keep saying how rare it is, I figured it's about time to say that it happens more than they are willing to admit. In 1996, I was raped at church. I was raised to believe that if you are raped, it is your fault. God is punishing you for some sin you have committed. But still, I told my mom and she didn't believe me. I figured no one would after her reaction. My dad lived out of state at the time, so I didn't even think to tell him, especially considering he was the one who taught me it's the woman's fault. I was distraught for months, or traumatized as that rethug witch might say. I stopped eating, cried constantly, and went into a severe depression. My dad came to town 4 months after the incident and noticed that I was extremely skinny and not looking healthy, in general. He took me to the doctor and I told the nurse everything. They ordered a pregnancy test and it came back positive. So while I was emotionally and physically traumatized, my body stopped nothing! My daughter is now a healthy, straight-A student in the 10th grade. I wish my body had shut it down, considering I was raped at 14. But I love her and she puts a smile on my face (most days-teenage girl drama can be maddening). Today, my rapist is in jail, I'm an atheist and my dad is an agnostic. I've disowned my mother. My daughter only recently found out how she was conceived and now we have two people who were hurt by this. I wish these politicians knew what real women go through in these situations. Short of it happening to them or their daughters (which I do not wish on anyone), I'm afraid they will never truly understand. But I hope those on DU do.

[Pachamama]

32. Thank you for sharing your story....

I felt sick to my stomach as I read your story...I too was raped many years ago, and I fortunately did not get pregnant because I was on the pill....not because of my body being traumatized....I was also an adult. It pains me when I read your story thinking you were the age of my daughter....or your daughter now...

Reading this article and hearing people like this CA GOP Representative Celeste Craig (its important to say their names) make such ignorant and insane and offensive comments, makes my blood boil. These people have no business in either elected offices or ever coming into any position that has the power to make laws or policies that regulate our lives....or our bodies.

I am sorry your mother betrayed you so....that pain makes the pain of rape so much greater....I too know that all too well....but I am glad your father was there for you...I am sure his original lessons of "fault" changed after seeing what you went through....

Finally.....I too know teen drama...but your daughter sounds like she has turned out to be growing into a great young woman with a bright future and a great mom....

[TxDemChem]

45. Thank you for your post

It sickened me to resell my story, but so many people, male and female, have come from the shadows that I could no longer hide my past. And I am so sorry that you too were raped. We live with the pain everyday, but all of these nonsensical statements have reopened wounds that I hoped were closed. Together, all victims of sexual violence, can be strong. I just wish no one else experiences what you, I and too many others have. Thank you for sharing your story.

[MAD Dave]

35. Your strength and resilience is a testament to you.

You are truly a hero!

[TxDemChem]

46. I'm no hero

But I hope other victims know they are not alone. Thank you for your post.

[Sheepshank]

39. I think you are an exceptional person to come out and state the reality

not just *the* reality, but your reality.

I also think that just as with the Catholic church and people/boys all feeling empowered to come forward with the truth, these idiotic statements made by ignorant politicians will have the same effect. Women will become emboldened by the truth and bravery of others who are willing to step out and pave the way.

[TxDemChem]

47. Definitely not exceptional

But thank you for your kind words. You are absolutely right about their idiotic statements. I felt the need to come forward because I had already been violated once, and I'll be damned if these ignorant politicians will verbally violate me over and over. For those who don't want to discuss their assaults, know that I am thinking of you and hope that you can find your strength. You don't have to come forward, but know that we victims support you.

[Number23]

71. Wow. Phenomenal and powerful post

You didn't have to share any of that, but I'm sure you've educated every person that's read it in some way.

Thanks for that.

[TxDemChem]

84. I just wanted everyone who may not know

Someone who has gone through this to know what happens in real life. I hear and read do many stupid comments about rape, and pregnancy from rape, that it seemed like the time to come forward. Until all of this happened to me, my dad was an arch-conservative who liked to talk the talk. But when he was forced to acknowledge my rape and resulting pregnancy, he completely changed. Reality will do that to you. And thank you for posting.

[LibertyLover]

93. I am so very sorry -

I know that words don't mean much, especially from someone who happens to post on the same board you do, but I truly am very sorry for what you went through, both at the time and in telling your story now. Thank you for your courage. My goddaughter was raped 20 years ago by a married man she worked with. Even with a loving family, support from friends who loved her and much counseling, it took many years for her to come to terms with what happened to her. She now counsels rape victims and I am so proud of her bravery too.

[TxDemChem]

94. Thanks for posting

I'm so sorry to hear that your goddaughter was raped also (I finally feel semi-comfortable using that term rather than "assaulted). Although the pain never goes away, she did the right thing by receiving counseling. And you and her family were absolutely wonderful to support her. After my daughter was born, I despised the fact that she had my rapist's chin and seemingly his hands and toes, but after a lot of support and counseling, I started seeing her as a person removed from that horrible event. Now when I see her, I just see a sweet mini version of me. She's hot my personality and mannerisms, but I don't know that I would have been able to see her the way I do now without support from others. I think it is absolutely wonderful that your goddaughter is helping so many other women. Sometimes the only person a victim can talk to is another victim. But your goddaughter has risen above that and has become a source of comfort and security. We need more people like her. It takes a special person to overcome one's own tragedy and help others. Please thank her for me.

[LibertyLover]

95. I will do that and you keep on keeping on as well.

n/t

[Auggie]

30. Moronic comments from CA Repugs are okay ...

they only further weaken an already decimated party. Keep it up folks.

[MAD Dave]

34. If this were true.....

Then why the fuck were the victors of former wars encouraged to rape the occupied women. Simple......Some of them got pregnant and it was the ultimate humiliation to give birth to an enemy's child!

[xmas74]

36. So that's where Todd Akin moved!

We haven't heard much about him in Missouri since he lost the election.

[Sheepshank]

38. They.just.can't.help.themselves.

I remember the frustration of a woman going through infertility treatments for an-ovulation and a male low sperm count and the idiots telling her to just relax and she will get pregnant, Uninformed idiots think those two thought processes are related. If a woman can relax and get pg easier, a traumatic event should have the opposite effect.

It's the same "science" they use to articulate that the world is 6000 years old. The reality and the issues and the recoded data isn't considered relevant to their argument.

[Paladin]

41. +1000 (nt)

[City Lights]

40. Stupidity must be a requirement for joining the GOPers club.

[OldDem2012]

43. Pic of Orly Taitz and Celeste Greig.....

Tells you a lot about both women, doesn't it?

[Marie Marie]

77. Can you smell the stupid in that room?

[LeftishBrit]

92. There should be a law against packing so much idiocy into such a small space!

[judesedit]

44. These illiterate bastards are running our country, people! Vote their asses outta there PLEASE!!!!

They are all the same. It's like the blob is coming. They're brains are mush. Oooo, the stench.

[SHRED]

48. sick

[harkonen]

50. She Hear That From a Baby-Delivering Stork?

Last edited Sun Mar 3, 2013, 01:37 AM - Edit history (2)

.
.
Just ask this brainiac:
.

[red dog 1]

67. That "Bubba" looks like he knows a thing or two about homicide!

[Marie Marie]

78. And Date Rape.

Eeeccchh.

[iandhr]

51. WOW

You would think that after getting there asses handed to them in 2012 they would learn not to take about rape like that.

[Lobo27]

53. I'm one that tends to hope for the best.

That humans will better themselves, but the way these GoP act. It makes all that hope just go away. To a deep well of no return.... The shear stupidity of them is mind numbing...

[L0oniX]

55. Please proceed. n/t

[Chorophyll]

59. Where are they getting this shit? This is the third or fourth idiot I've heard make this claim.

Is there some special Republican science book they use? The same one that tells them earth is only 4000 years old?

[dgibby]

60. Wonder what awful trauma she experienced

that caused her brain to shut down, thus prohibiting rational thought.

[Prism]

61. Must've been traumatized by a medical encyclopedia

It's so rare for basic education to take when that happens.

This is why we need laws against biology, science's little sociopath.

[red dog 1]

62. This is unbelievable!

[IcyPeas]

63. Here's her contact info - go ahead and send her a nice email

http://www.californiarepublicanassembly.com/content/cra-president-celeste-greig

[struggle4progress]

64. Dunno about that, but intelligent statements by Republicans sure seem rare nowadays

[red dog 1]

65. Thanks for posting this.

[bluestate10]

68. Wow!!!! F'ing WOW!!!. Why should republicans be allowed anywhere near public office?

[blkmusclmachine]

69. Nuts.

[oldandhappy]

70. We have 29% registered as Repubs in CA

This is just one reason their numbers are sliding downhill.

[PatrynXX]

72. wonder what they think about dry sex?

which has gotten some women pregnant. thru the clothes. cause it's really not dry...

I'm sure if someone who has aids spat on one of these guys then they'd give a shit.

[SunSeeker]

73. The stupid is strong in this one. nt

[Nanjing to Seoul]

74. The sadder thing is people vote for these monkeys. Seriously!

[oldbanjo]

75. Brains are not required remember Palin.

[Bucky]

76. This Republican Party needs consciousness before it can have a conscience.

Wasn't the 2012 election basically a referendum on pregnancy by rape?

Attention Republicans: the people have spoken and they want you to shut up about rape.

[catbyte]

79. They just can't help themselves, can they?

[AndyTiedye]

80. Just Call Them RAPEuglicans

[Beartracks]

81. "The comatose of the Republican Party." Did I read that correctly? n/t

[Apophis]

82. I can't believe some people are this stupid.

[NewJeffCT]

85. Isn't the opposite true?

rape is more likely to result in pregnancy?

[Samantha]

88. 90 percent of pregnancies in children 15 and under is caused by rape by family members

http://www.google.com/#hl=en&q=pregnancy+due+to+rape+statistics&revid=1268612885&sa=X&ei=ZOczUdq4HoiW0QGn_YGYCw&ved=0CHwQ1QIoAg&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_qf.&bvm=bv.43148975,d.dmQ&fp=c1860044171a634f&biw=1152&bih=665

And then there is this:

"Any female capable of ovulation may become pregnant after rape by a fertile male. Rape causes tens of thousands of women to become pregnant each year. In a three-year longitudinal study of 4,000 American women, physician Melisa Holmes found that forced sexual intercourse causes over 32,000 pregnancies in the United States each year.[7]"

quoted from the same source.

Sam

[47of74]

91. Oh Jesus