Anita Perry and the changing politics of abortion in Texas

The divide in the House of Perry may reflect a growing statewide split on the issue

Rick and Anita Perry
(Image credit: (Allison Joyce/Getty Images))

While the federal government remains embroiled in a government shutdown, the big political debate in Texas continues to center on a classic polarizing issue: Abortion. Indeed, the issue has so come to dominate the Lone Star State's political culture that even the House of Perry has taken sides.

Contrary to her husband, who opposes abortion even in cases of rape, incest, and the endangerment of maternal health, Anita Perry said during a recent television interview that she sees abortion "as a woman's right," adding, "If they want to do that, that is their decision. It is not something I would say for them."

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Emily Shire is chief researcher for The Week magazine. She has written about pop culture, religion, and women and gender issues at publications including Slate, The Forward, and Jewcy.