On Wednesday, CNN ran a segment in which the network openly tried to make the special election in House District 10 between Democrat Marilyn Lands and Republican Teddy Powell a referendum on abortion.
CNN's Dianne Gallagher described the race as "what could be poised as the latest test of the political potency of reproductive rights." She focused on Lands, making abortion a key part of her campaign. Powell was featured in the segment, but Lands was given more air time to discuss their key issues.
Gallagher noted that since Roe v. Wade, a string of Democrats have won when abortion rights have been on the ballot.
Powell said he doesn't see this as a referendum on abortion and added that people in the district are more focused on keeping good schools, economic development flowing and improving infrastructure.
Powell said about hearing abortion as an issue, "I think maybe once an entire of 7,000 doors I think we've knocked on that I heard that. The place I hear it most is in her platform and the media."
Political consultants speaking with 1819 News believe that CNN's timing, along with a Washington, D.C.-based pro-abortion group's involvement, is not a coincidence.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email Bradley.cox@1819news.com or on Twitter @BradleyCoxAL
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