Press Releases

WASHINGTON—Today, Representative Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) spoke on the floor of the United States House of Representatives for the first time in response to the Republican efforts to restrict reproductive health care during the first weeks of the 118^thCongress. Throughout her time in the Colorado legislature, Pettersen was an outspoken advocate for women’s reproductive freedom and was part of the effort to pass legislation codifying abortion rights into state law. 

To access the full Floor speech, click here. A transcript can be found below.

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Thank you, Madam Speaker.

I rise today because at a time when Americans across the country are facing urgent needs, Republicans are choosing to spend the first week of Congress attacking women’s reproductive health care. 

This week, we should be advancing legislation to fight inflation and lower everyday costs for families who are struggling to make ends meet.

We should be passing measures to improve our education system and address our dire workforce shortages. 

But instead, Republicans are doubling-down on their assault on women’s reproductive freedom, even though the vast majority of Americans believe that women should have the right to choose.

But I came to Congress to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, and fight against extremism just like this.

The people of Colorado’s 7th District sent me here to ensure that these personal decisions are kept between women, their doctors, and their families—not members of Congress.

Just like I did in the state Senate, I will not stop fighting until all Americans have control over their own bodies, their own health care decisions, and their own lives. 

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I yield back.

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Pettersen grew up in a working-class family in Jefferson County, Colorado, where she now lives with her husband and son. She was the first in her family to graduate from both high school and college, and then went on to serve in the Colorado legislature for ten years. In Congress, Pettersen will be a strong advocate for hardworking families, small businesses, and those disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. Her Committee assignments are expected to be announced in the coming days. To stay up-to-date on what Pettersen is doing in Congress, follow her on Twitter here, or Facebook here.