By Richard Luthmann
As Floridians prepare to cast their ballots, Bishop Frank J. Dewane of the Diocese of Venice in Southwest Florida is rallying Catholics and pro-life supporters to vote against Amendment 4. With his deep conviction on the sanctity of life, Dewane argues the measure could fundamentally alter Florida’s abortion laws, making the state one of the most permissive for abortions in the nation. His message is clear: Vote No on Amendment 4.
“If Amendment Four passes, it becomes part of our state constitution,” Dewane warned, emphasizing that the amendment would “allow abortions at any time for any reason,” even in cases where the fetus can feel pain.
A Radical Shift on Abortion Laws
Bishop Dewane detailed the potential impact of the amendment, which would eliminate key restrictions surrounding abortion in Florida.
“Remember,” he said, “Amendment Four removes all restrictions on abortion, allowing for abortions at any time for any reason, including extremely late-term abortions.”
He voiced his concern that Amendment 4 could also erode laws that safeguard minors, removing parental consent requirements and enabling minors to obtain abortions with only post-fact notification. This is yet another alarming reason to vote no on Amendment 4.
Beyond dismantling parental controls, the amendment would repeal various restrictions. The bishop outlined how it would eradicate laws mandating that only licensed physicians perform abortions, as well as those barring taxpayer dollars from funding the procedures. Such broad implications, he argued, go against the values of many Floridians who support parental rights and oppose the use of public funds for elective abortions.
“A 60% Majority Needed”
Despite the significant support required for passage, Dewane stressed the urgency of a unified Catholic vote.
“The good news is Amendment Four can still be defeated,” he remarked.
He cited a recent poll showing the amendment teetering on the edge of failure, with a slim majority in favor but falling short of the 60% supermajority needed to pass.
“It is clear that the possibility to defeat Amendment Four is there with your vote,” Dewane said, urging Catholics not to let the opportunity slip by.
Calling Amendment 4 “Unthinkable” and “Unnecessary”
Bishop Dewane’s message to Catholic voters highlights a broader mission rooted in Catholic teachings on life and morality.
“I hope that you see abortion as unthinkable in any circumstance,” he told his audience.
Acknowledging that not all voters share his views on the sanctity of life, he appealed to their sense of reason, describing the amendment as “radical, extreme, and really unnecessary.” By voting against the measure, he believes Floridians can preserve a more moderate and balanced approach to abortion legislation.
“Exercise Your Constitutional Right”
In his final appeal, Dewane reminded Floridians of their civic responsibility and encouraged them to embrace their right to vote while honoring Catholic values.
He urged Catholics to “exercise your own constitutional right and embrace your responsibility as a Catholic to have your voice heard.”
He concluded with a prayerful note, expressing hope that the Holy Spirit would guide voters to reject what he termed a “dangerous pro-abortion constitutional amendment.”
As Florida’s Election Day approaches, Dewane’s rallying call highlights a growing divide over abortion rights, with Amendment 4 at the center of a heated debate. His message serves as a reminder of the powerful intersection of faith and civic duty as Catholics and pro-life advocates weigh the implications of this potentially far-reaching measure.
Vote No on Amendment 4: Bishop Dewane Urges Florida Catholics to Reject “Radical” Ballot Measure