Az Congressional Candidates Cicsomani and Engel Go Head-to-Head Over Abortion Rights Debate

The contentious debate over abortion rights has taken center stage in the contest for Southern Arizona’s Congressional District 6. Incumbent U.S. Rep. Juan Ciscomani, a Republican, is up against Democrat Kirsten Engel, who narrowly lost to him two years ago.

Ciscomani recently unveiled a television ad asserting his commitment to a “common-sense approach” to reproductive rights. “I trust women,” he states directly, emphasizing his opposition to extreme stances on abortion. He has voiced his opposition to a federal ban, supporting exceptions for cases of rape, incest, and threats to a mother’s life.

Engel challenges Ciscomani’s claims, arguing that his voting record contradicts his public statements. “Words don’t matter, actions do,” she told Tucson Sentinel, highlighting his votes that she says restrict access to abortion services. Engel accuses him of aligning with far-right interests and misrepresenting his history on reproductive rights to Arizona voters.

Since launching her campaign, Engel has seized on the abortion issue. She contrasts her platform with Ciscomani’s during a recent roundtable discussion. “In Congress, I will protect our freedom to make our own reproductive health care decisions. My opponent will not,” she asserted, insisting that Ciscomani aims to transfer these crucial decisions to lawmakers.

Ciscomani boasts an A-plus rating from the anti-abortion group Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, which praises him for opposing what it describes as a pro-abortion agenda. Conversely, he received a mere 14 out of 100 from Planned Parenthood Action Fund, reflecting a stark divide in perspectives on the issue.

In 2022, Ciscomani endorsed the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, claiming that abortion policies should be determined at the state level. While participating in agriculture funding discussions, he voted to restrict mail delivery of abortion medication, although this provision was removed in negotiations later.

Additionally, Ciscomani has pushed for legislation that would prevent federal employees and military members from obtaining abortion-related travel reimbursements, raising concerns among many, including military advocates aware of the unique challenges service members face. Congressman Ted Lieu, a fellow committee member, criticized such provisions for potentially endangering servicewomen’s access to necessary care. “If you’re assigned to a state where there are no reproductive health services… you are in a world of hurt,” Lieu stated.

Personal stories, such as that of Ysenia Gamaz, a military spouse, provide a poignant perspective on the implications of current abortion policies. After experiencing an ectopic pregnancy and managing her care, Gamaz expressed her fears about future access to similar treatment, especially as her family’s military assignments change.

The race remains competitive as approximately 74 percent of voters reside in Pima County, with a significant number registered as independents. While Republicans lead slightly in registration, Engel’s campaign and recent fundraising efforts indicate a potentially tight race. She had outpaced Ciscomani in fundraising through mid-year, underscoring the district’s fluctuating dynamics.

A televised debate between the candidates is scheduled for Oct. 8, where both will have the opportunity to further articulate their positions on this vital issue.