Clinton Ad Is Being Aired On Christian Radio Stations
WASHINGTON - President Clinton's campaign is airing an ad on Christian radio stations that notes his opposition to some late-term abortions and his signing of legislation aimed at preventing federal recognition of gay marriages.
The ad marks a significant departure for Clinton, who has made support for abortion rights a cornerstone of his appeal to women voters; his veto of a bill that would have outlawed one late-term abortion procedure has been denounced by key Catholic leaders.
And while the ad depicts his opposition to same-sex marriage as a political asset, Clinton previously called the legislation "one more attempt to divert the American people" from more serious issues.
The ad is a response to a Dole radio commercial, also airing on Christian stations in about 15 states, that accuses the president of supporting "ninth-month abortions."
"Don't be misled by Bob Dole's attack ads," Clinton's spot says. "President Clinton wants a complete ban on late-term abortions except when the mother's life is in danger or faces severe health risks, such as the inability to have another child. The president signed the Defense of Marriage Act, supports curfews and school uniforms to teach our children discipline."
Clinton signed the Defense of Marriage Act last month. The measure says that if any state legalizes same-sex marriages, no other state would have to recognize their validity.
Last April, he vetoed a bill that would have outlawed a procedure used to end late-stage pregnancies. Clinton had said he could accept such a ban only if it contained an exception for women who faced serious health consequences.