Without the protection of life, there is no liberty. That is exactly why it is imperative that we defend life even in the smallest of forms.

I am proud of the progress that has been made in recent years by the South Carolina General Assembly. In 2019, I had the opportunity to testify before the Senate medical committee regarding the Heartbeat Bill. With the original bill going from passing in the SC House and going over to the Senate – it was an uphill battle; however, was possible until the uncertain of COVID-19 managed to end the 2020 session early. This would push the Heartbeat Bill into the next session for 2021-2022. Luckily, the bill was given priority in the Senate and passed as their first bill in 2021. It would then come to the House where we quickly passed it.

While the Heartbeat Bill does not protect life at the moment of conception – it does get closer by prohibiting an abortion if a heartbeat can be protected. A heartbeat can normally be detected between 6-8 weeks. I will always vote for any legislation that advances the protection of life.

Immediately after the SC Heartbeat Bill was signed it was challenged in court with a number of other states. This is one of the most important issues of our time. I will always fight to defend the voice of the voiceless.