Lisa France Norris, a Republican from Alma running in House District 81, said this week her stance on abortion does not qualify her as a pro-choice candidate.
Norris and her May 22 GOP primary election opponent, Rep. Justin Harris, R-West Fork, debated for an hour Wednesday in the Fayetteville Clarion Inn. The event was hosted by the Washington County Republican Women.
Harris said he opposes abortion and questioned Norris’ statement last week in the Arkansas Voter’s Guide on the topic. In the guide, published by the Little Rock-based Family Council, Norris writes, “I believe health care decisions are best made between an individual and his or her health care provider — not by government or courts.”
In a tweet, Harris characterized that as a “pro-choice” statement.
At Wednesday’s debate, however, Norris said she believes in protecting “the rights of the unborn.” She said her response in the Arkansas Voter’s Guide is her way of saying women and men should consult with doctors on nutrition and other health issues regarding pregnancies. In an interview after the debate, Norris said she is a pro-life candidate.
The winner in the GOP primary faces Democrat Michael “Wolf” Grulkey of Alma in the Nov. 6 general election. District 81 encompasses parts of Washington and Crawford counties.
