January 16, 2015

“Daily Show” Explains the Absurdity in Alabama’s New Abortion Law That Appoints Lawyers for Fetuses

Back in September, Mother Jones reporter Molly Redden investigated a new law in Alabama forcing pregnant teenagers seeking an abortion to first receive parental consent. If she is unable to get permission, the teenager is then put on trial, giving judges the right to appoint attorneys to defend the unborn fetus.

This all sounds insane. Last night, “The Daily Show” sent correspondent Jessica Williams to the state to investigate. Here’s how some of that absurdity played out:

“You get a call from a fetus seeking legal representation, then what happens?” Williams asks unborn fetus attorney Julian McPhillips. 

“I cannot get a call from a fetus for anything much less legal representation,” he answers.

When questioned about how he meets in confidentiality with his unborn client, McPhillips shoots back, “I cannot communicate with them directly, you know better than to ask the question.”

“Well I don’t know! You have a crazy ass job, sir. I don’t know what’s in the realm of possibility and what’s in the realm of not possible.” 

For more on how judges humiliate teens seeking abortions, read our in-depth report here. 

Watch below:

 

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We can afford to take that time because we don’t report to an oligarch or corporation with a special agenda. We report to you, and for you. That’s why we unabashedly pursue the truth and relentlessly shine a light into the darkness.

In this month’s Summer Membership Drive, we’ve got to raise $200,000 to support more crucial investigations. This is a pivotal moment in our nation, with democracy on the line, and we can only do this work because readers like you step up. Every donation, of any amount, makes a difference here. We cannot do this work without you.

So, we’re asking: Will you support independent journalism that demands those in power answer for their actions?

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