Over the past weeks I have been campaigning for public office while displaying my pro-choice policy stance in the form of a pin that reads “I stand with Planned Parenthood.” This statement has, unsurprisingly, drawn attention and conversation.

While the overwhelming majority view on abortion health care is that rights once guaranteed under Roe v. Wade must be upheld, there is understandable emotion and concern across those with differing views. Both those who strongly agree with my pro-choice stance and those who disagree have communicated where they stand and how they intend to vote this November.

It will be my responsibility as your representative, when elected, to pass legislation upholding the practical access to the freedom of choice over one’s own body. It will be my responsibility to ensure that the rights enumerated under Roe v. Wade, which are codified in our State Constitution, are accessible to all who may choose or not choose to exercise them. It will not be my place to make a choice one way or another over the bodily autonomy of others, but it will be my responsibility to en-sure that all are guaranteed that freedom of choice for themselves.

Nick Gauthier

Waterford

The writer is a candidate for state representative in the 38th District 38.