The Most Endangered Political Class [PHIL-OSOPHY]

I used to be a Democrat but the party abandoned me and my values. I notice the same has happened to my pro-life Democratic friends who oppose abortion and feel like they must choose between their religious beliefs and their chosen political identity.

Interestingly, when I brought the topic up on the air, a listener messaged me saying abortion supporters and pro-lifers don't meld, the same way the Democratic party wouldn't say it values its LGBTQ party members on one hand but then say it equally values its members who support conversion therapy.

The term "pro-life Democrat" sounds like an oxymoron, and I'm sure their existence triggers heated arguments between friends.

Over the weekend, I happen to be reading and came across a full-page ad in the New York Times on September 20, sponsored by a group I wasn't familiar with called Democrats For Life of America that was challenging their party's extreme stances, such as on late-term abortion.

The full-page advertisement was like a bombshell surprise. The ad was basically saying something I believe is accurate, that many Democratic leaders support policies on abortion that are radically out of line with public opinion, and because of this, the party is alienating some of its own voters.

I was elated to see groups like Pro Black-Pro Life, Pro-Life Alliance of Gays and Lesbians and New Wave Feminists, among others, listed as supporting this cause. And among the 109 legislators signing their names, was a Fall River Democrat, Representative Alan Silvia.

It took spine and cojones to come forward with this, and I can only imagine the disparagement they'll go through, but I want to pay homage to and commend the Democratic women and men, the organizations listed and Democrats For Life of America for challenging their own party's madness.

Phil Paleologos is the host of The Phil Paleologos Show on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Contact him at phil@wbsm.com and follow him on Twitter @PhilPaleologos. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.