A House of Representative member from the US state of Michigan, Laurie Pohutsky revealed Wednesday that she underwent a sterilization procedure earlier this year, citing concerns over the future of reproductive healthcare access under US President Donald Trump’s administration.
“Just under two weeks ago, I underwent surgery to ensure that I would never have to navigate a pregnancy in Donald Trump’s America,” Pohutsky stated at a rally at the Michigan Capitol, as per the New York Post.
She emphasised her fear that reproductive rights could be further restricted, adding, “I refuse to let my body be treated as currency by an administration that only sees value in my ability to procreate.”
The lawmaker made the remarks during the “50501 Movement” protest, which organized demonstrations in all 50 states on the same day, according to Michigan Advance. Protesters at the event held signs warning about the risks of Trump’s policies, with some drawing comparisons to fascism.
Pohutsky’s comments sparked a backlash from conservatives, with GOP state Rep Brad Paquette criticising her decision and public disclosure. “Publicly announcing the destruction of her reproductive system to further misinformation for political gain must be condemned by all,” he wrote on X.
Despite the criticism, Pohutsky defended her decision, arguing that it underscored concerns about reproductive rights. “The fact that so many conservative men take personal offense to a decision that I made with my husband about my health care and future just proves the point that we shouldn’t assume that right is secure,” she posted on social media.
As Fox News reported, Trump has previously stated that abortion laws should be decided by individual states. Michigan voters enshrined abortion rights in the state constitution in 2022, ensuring access without restrictions. However, Pohutsky expressed uncertainty about the future of contraception access.
The New York Times noted that Trump recently reinstated policies restricting federal funding for abortion services, both domestically and internationally. These executive actions have reignited debates over reproductive rights and fueled resistance among Democratic lawmakers.
Pohutsky urged elected officials to take stronger stances against Trump’s policies, stating, “We need to demand that our elected officials at all levels stop pretending that this is politics as usual,” Michigan Advance reported.
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