Louisiana Democratic Gov. John Bel Edwards signed a bill Thursday banning abortions once a heartbeat is detectable with no exceptions for rape or incest, according to his office.
Edwards, who describes himself as a « pro-life » Democrat, said in a statement Wednesday that he intended to sign the bill, stating, « I have been true to my word and my beliefs on this issue. » He added that it’s his « sincere belief that being pro-life means more than just being pro-birth. »
« I know there are many who feel just as strongly as I do on abortion and disagree with me — and I respect their opinions, » he said Wednesday.
