Oct. 22, 2026 Editor, The News-Gazette: After reading the October 21 editorial, I felt compelled to write a rebuttal. I am not “viewing the proposed amendments through partisan perspectives,” but rather through moral and common sense. The wording on the ballot for all three of the amendments is truly misleading. To understand if you should vote “Yes” or “No” one must study the actual wording of the Constitutional Amendments.
Amendment 1, “Right to Reproductive Freedom” – This is not a vote for or against abortion. Virginia already has a law that allows for abortions with several safeguards. This constitutional amendment, if passed, states “any individual” – women, pre-teens, children and minors.
It also uses the language “shall not discriminate in the protection or enforcement of the ‘fundamental right’” meaning no parental consent is needed, medical staff who choose not to perform an abortion can be punished and it opens the doors to taxpayerfunded abortions.
Further language states, “shall not penalize, prosecute … any individual for aiding or assisting … any individual’s right to reproductive freedom …” – think abusive partner, pedophiles and/or traffickers.
Amendment 2, “Repeal and replace Marriage” – The Supreme Court has already ruled that samesex marriage is legal. This constitutional amendment would remove religious freedom protections for clergy and government employees whose faith prevents them from recognizing same-sex or transgender partnerships as marriage and opens them up to expensive lawsuits.
Amendment 3, “Restoration of paroled felons” automatically gives them back their right to vote. It also gives them the right to then serve on juries. I can agree that individuals may deserve a second chance. But does the victim also deserve some rights. Instead of automatic restorations of voting rights, the victims should be expected to receive restitution and court costs be paid. These two ideas were taken out of the final draft.
These three amendments do not belong in Virginia’s Constitution. Vote no on all there. JAN LOWRY Lexington
