[JohnnyZ]

IF, as suggested by Gipper08, Allen does not thrill pro-lifers and those socially conservative on other issues, I feel confident that he can take a sufficient written pledge to satisfy doubters.

Allen's solid and trustworthy on social issues -- except --> he believes life begins (and presumably ends) with heartbeat/brainwave activity (roughly 8 weeks).

I have a lot easier time dealing with an honest disagreement over the beginning of life than a hypocritical "personally opposed, but ..." that you'll get from many who still claim to be pro-life.

[BlackElk]

Me, too. Allen should take a pledge to support the pure, pro-life position because, as a practical matter, loopholes become six-lane highways, and because his constituents want him to take a pure pro-life position. Bush the Elder used to be a tool of Planned Barrenhood in Houston and his mother was on the Planned Barrenhood Board but he turned on a dime when offered the vice presidency. True, he was responsible for David Souter but he also named Clarence Thomas. I want Allen to name the Thomases but not the Souters and I bet he is on board for that.

One possible problem: Is there any chance he paid for an abortion and is rationalizing it with this eight-week business? I think heart beats start a lot sooner than eight weeks also.