Idaho Republican Apologizes For Comparing Women To Farm Animals

A newly elected Republican congressman has apologized to an Idaho lawmaker for comments comparing women's reproductive rights to milking cows.

Rep. Jack Nelson, who was first elected to the state House of Representatives in November 2022, told the caucus he had "strong views" about women's health. However, two days later he said his comments were "inappropriate".

Women's reproductive health became a hot topic in Idaho after the US Supreme Court gave each state the power to regulate abortion in June 2022. Wade

Idaho was one of the states to reintroduce abortion bans, passing legislation in July criminalizing abortions unless medically necessary or in cases of domestic violence or rape. He was criticized by the state's medical community for failing to issue life-limiting diagnoses.

"I've been a rancher my whole life, I'm retired, I'm still part of the dairy farm," Nelson said in his opening remarks at the first Idaho Agriculture Committee meeting Jan. 10. ; He grew up on a farm. I have milked many cows. , she spent most of her time behind cows. So if you want some insight into female fertility and health, I have a few suggestions.

Nonetheless, Nelson laughs before continuing with his introduction.

Nelson, a Jerome Ranching partner of 45 years, is one of two representatives from Idaho ^{'s 26th} District, east of Boise, which also includes Jerome and the Shoshones.

On Jan. 12, the Idaho Statesman published an op-ed, slamming his remarks and calling the topic "no laughing matter."

"His comments were not only hurtful and embarrassing, but strange after reporting to the House Agriculture Committee," she said. "Is that how you decide to advertise yourself by comparing women's health care to milking a cow?"

Citing other failings by state lawmakers, OpDed said, "It would be nice if men like Nelson showed a little more humility and decency instead of pretending to be women's health experts, which they certainly aren't."

"Maybe if they shut up a little, don't abuse women, and save Idaho from national embarrassment," she added.

Seven hours after the editorial appeared, Nelson apologized in an email to another local Magic Valley news outlet.

Nelson, who has a wife and five grandchildren, said: "The women in my life have taught me strength, courage, loyalty, hard work, happiness and love. I respect women and their right to choose their own treatment.”

She added: "The way I worded my statement yesterday on women and reproductive rights was very vague. “I'm embarrassed by the process and I've let others down. I'm really sorry. I admit my mistake and promise to correct myself in the future.”

"I have always operated and will continue to operate under the government's no-no-place requirement in a doctor's office," Nelson said.