Washington, D.C. – DNC Chair Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz released the following statement today in response to House Republicans’ wasteful investigation of Planned Parenthood:

“Once again, House Republicans have wasted taxpayer time and money to conduct a wasteful investigation into baseless allegations. Their efforts to try to score cheap political points instead of governing on behalf of hardworking families is exactly why the American people are frustrated with Washington. Just as stunning, the Republican field of presidential candidates is equally out of touch, whether it's Jeb Bush questioning the value of women's health care, Marco Rubio's support of abortion bans even in cases of rape and incest, Donald Trump and others insisting we shut down the government over Planned Parenthood, or Carly Fiorina's string of lies about the organization, today's Republican Party simply doesn't take women's health seriously.

“As a breast cancer survivor, I know firsthand the importance of ensuring all women have access to breast examinations and referrals for mammograms. That's what Planned Parenthood President Cecile Richards' strong defense of her organization's work was all about, the millions of women, and their families, who depend on those vital health services. Defunding Planned Parenthood would threaten access to life-saving preventive care for men and women who have nowhere else to turn. The condescending tone and constant interruptions of Ms. Richards from Republicans on the panel were simply inappropriate and unacceptable for anyone testifying before Congress. Considering their poor understanding of this issue and what Planned Parenthood means to millions of families, House Republicans and their field of presidential candidates ought to start listening to women, including Ms. Richards, instead of speaking over them.”