Nancy Dahlstrom on Abortion

Pro-life with exceptions of rape, incest, life of the mother

Some Republicans have expressed interest in using a 19th century law, the Comstock Act, to restrict birth control and abortions, and Republican control of the House or the presidency may cause a significant change in existing federal policy.

Republican Lt. Gov. Nancy Dahlstrom said in an interview that she is "pro life with exceptions of rape, incest and life of the mother," but that abortion is "best left up to the states."

Among the nine lesser-known candidates in the race, Alaskan Independence Party candidate John Wayne Howe referred to abortion as "child murder." Republican Gerald Heikes is strongly against abortion rights, saying that "there are no Christians in the Democratic Party" because of the party's stance on abortion.

Safe Haven bill: allow surrendering newborns without penalty

Without penalty, a parent may leave the infant in the physical custody of a peace officer, physician or hospital employee, or a volunteer or employee of a fire station or emergency medical service. "All children deserve to begin their lives in a loving, protective family," Gov. Palin said. "When that fails, it is our job as a state to make sure that children are protected."

The Commissioner of Health and Social Services said, "Unfortunately, abandonment of infants has occurred in Alaska. It is our hope that the passage of the 'Safe Haven' act has ended that forever."

Legislative Outcome:Passed House 35-0-5 on May/7/07; Nancy Dahlstrom co-sponsored and voted YES; Passed Senate 15-0-5 on Jan/19/08; signed by Gov. Palin on 2/11/08.