When it comes to laws about reproductive rights and women’s healthcare, county commissioners aren’t usually at the top of the priority list; laws of that nature are dealt with more at the state or federal level.
The county does play an important role when it comes to implementation of those laws, and the people carrying out county-level policies can still make a big difference.
For instance, here’s the home page of the Oakland County Health Division:
The Oakland County Health Division provides health services for the public, businesses and educational communities.
The Health Division’s 30+ programs/services focus on preventing the spread of disease; ensuring a safe and clean environment; promoting and encouraging healthy behaviors; preparing for emergencies; surveillance of disease threats; and ensuring accessibility of health services. The Health Division identifies real public health issues affecting the community and addresses needs with cost effective services. OCHD programs benefit every Oakland County resident, as well as countless visitors.
The county provides public information about important public health issues such as the Zika Virus, helps prevent youth suicide, and of course the Flint water crisis has shocked everyone into paying attention to water protection and other environmental health issues.
In any event, regardless of whether it has any significant connection with the job (remember, abortion is a tiny part of their services), I’m very pleased to report that I’ve been officially endorsed by Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan!
Will this hurt me in a heavily Republican-leaning area? Perhaps, but I honestly don’t care. Given everything PP has been through over the past year (and the past decade), I’m touting their endorsement from the rooftops.
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I’m running for Oakland County Commissioner here in Mitt Romney’s hometown. Any assistance you could provide would be greatly appreciated!