Planned Parenthood’s New Jersey affiliate, in coordination with Attorney General Matthew Platkin (D), is targeting crisis pregnancy centers (CPCs) by disseminating misleading information and leveraging state power to undermine these pro-life charities. The effort, which includes an investigative report by the Planned Parenthood Action Fund of New Jersey (PPAFNJ), has been criticized for factual inaccuracies, flawed research, and politically motivated claims.
The report, intended to discredit the state’s pregnancy centers, has been described by the pro-life Lozier Institute as “riddled with speculative claims” and lacking credible evidence. Despite claiming independence, the report relied on a 2022 “consumer alert” issued by Platkin’s office — an alert that emails reveal was co-authored and edited by Planned Parenthood employees. The Lozier Institute pointed out that this collaboration raises questions about impartiality and intent.
Planned Parenthood’s claims include erroneous statistics about the number of pregnancy centers and the services they offer. While Planned Parenthood cited 59 centers, many on the list have closed, and most centers operate under strict guidelines. Of the 47 active centers, 83% are affiliated with reputable national organizations, ensuring medical care is supervised by licensed professionals and that patients receive accurate information.
Debbie Binskey, CEO of Options for Her, a New Jersey pregnancy center, highlighted the critical role these centers play. “Some come to us as victims of sex trafficking or domestic violence seeking rescue and safety… they are seeking HOPE for the future,” Binskey said. These centers provide vital services, including pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, counseling, and parenting resources.
The Lozier Institute’s findings contrast sharply with Planned Parenthood’s claims. Data show that 34 pregnancy centers in New Jersey offered over 8,000 free pregnancy tests, 7,000 free ultrasounds, and 2,210 STD/STI tests. Additionally, centers provided thousands of consultations, diapers, baby wipes, and baby clothes, demonstrating their commitment to supporting mothers and families.
The controversy escalated when Attorney General Platkin subpoenaed First Choice Women’s Resource Centers, a Christian pro-life organization, demanding donor information and internal records. Represented by Alliance Defending Freedom, First Choice alleges that Platkin’s investigation amounts to selective harassment based on religious and pro-life viewpoints.
Kelsey Pritchard of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America condemned Platkin’s actions. “Attorney General Matt Platkin’s assault on babies in the womb and women’s choice cannot stand,” Pritchard said. “The Democrats are no longer pro-choice. They are openly pro-abortion. They seek to shut down pregnancy centers that embolden women to have the ability to make a real choice.”
This targeting of CPCs reflects a broader trend in Democratic-led states to curtail pro-life organizations following the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision overturning Roe v. Wade. In states with abortion restrictions, CPCs play a crucial role in offering alternatives and practical support for women facing unplanned pregnancies.
Critics argue that Planned Parenthood and sympathetic state officials are determined to eliminate competition for abortion services. As pregnancy centers provide free care and material support, their work challenges the narrative that abortion is the only viable option for women in crisis. The outcome of this legal battle could have lasting implications for religious freedom, free speech, and the pro-life movement nationwide.
