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Trump's Call for Abortion 'Punishment' and a Likely Brokered Convention
Donald Trump's latest comments on abortions (that women who get them deserve "some form of punishment") has many pro-choice advocates up in arms, even though he later recanted his statement.
Letitia "Tish" James, the new New York City Public Advocate, said Donald Trump's suggestion is dangerous and regressive. "We refuse to go back into the closet."
@BrianLehrer very disconcerting that as men we have far too much weight in this fight. I'm very conservative but have no uterus.
— Kwasi Abahu (@JahKwasiAbahu) March 31, 2016@BrianLehrer I'm only alive because my mother had an abortion a year before I was born. My privacy is my biz. to the right right wing: 🖕🏽
— Katherine Lloyd (@BeatFaceRadio) March 31, 2016Caller: mom got med degree in 1920s, gave abortions/advice on illegal contracep. "She would be horrified that this is still being debated!"
— Brian Lehrer Show (@BrianLehrer) March 31, 2016Then, to switch gears, you've probably heard these phrases being tossed around in the news: we're heading toward a potential "contested convention" or "brokered convention."
What's the difference? Here's a simple explanation: if no candidate makes it to the convention with the majority of delegates, the July convention will be "contested."
A "brokered" convention is a little bit different. Before our modern primary system, the term used to refer to state party leaders actually brokering deals to gain delegate support. But that doesn't happen any more. What will happen is, if there's still no majority winner after the first round of votes at the convention, delegates will be able to vote again (after being approached by the candidates themselves, party officials, and other delegates).
Philip Bump, Washington Post political reporter, explains what would happen if the Republicans faced a "brokered" party convention and what it would take to get there.
→ More: NYC Public Advocate Tish James is organizing an "Emergency Call to Action" rally in response to Donald Trump's statements about abortion and women. It will take place today (Thursday, March 31st) at 4pm at Columbus Circle. See here for more details.