DeGette Calls for Anti-Choice Activists to Release Full, Unedited Tapes

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (CO-01) renewed her call for the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigation to release full, unedited video footage of Planned Parenthood Federation of America staff and associated facilities obtained by the Center for Medical Progress. In the four weeks since Rep. DeGette first called for the release of unedited footage, the Center for Medical Progress has continued to post heavily edited videos with dozens of film splices used to distort and misrepresent the actions of Planned Parenthood and its affiliates.

"While heavily edited video footage may be acceptable for YouTube it is not fit for an Energy and Commerce Oversight and Investigation hearing," said Rep. DeGette. "I wrote to Chairman Murphy four weeks ago and made it clear to him that if a thorough investigation is to proceed, it is vital the Committee consider authentic and complete video. This includes any exculpatory footage that may be in the possession of the Center for Medical Progress."

Rep. DeGette's letter to Oversight and Investigation Chairman Tim Murphy (PA-18) stated her deep disappointment in the Chairman's intention to open an investigation based on a clearly manipulated, deceptively edited video by an organization using ethically and legally questionable tactics. The letter clarified that a credible investigation must be preceded by the release of full, unedited video footage. Rep. DeGette's letter was sent on July 28, 2015.

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