Donald Trump vows to defund Planned Parenthood

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump released a letter last week declaring his commitment to defund Planned Parenthood if it continues to perform abortions.

Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump gestures as he speaks to the Economic Club of New York luncheon in Manhattan, New York, U.S., September 15, 2016. | REUTERS/Mike Segar

Before detailing his plans regarding abortion, Trump highlighted Clinton's stance on the issue. He pointed out that Clinton wants to repeal the Hyde Amendment, which prevents federal taxpayer money from funding abortions. He mentioned that Clinton will only appoint Supreme Court justices that will support her views regarding the matter.

Trump vowed that if elected, he will only nominate pro-life justices to the U.S. Supreme Court. He promised that he will sign the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act which prohibits late-term abortions.

He stated that he is committed to "defunding Planned Parenthood as long as they continue to perform abortions, and reallocating their funding to community health centers that provide comprehensive health care for women."

Trump also promised to turn the Hyde Amendment into a permanent law.

Marjorie Dannenfelser, president of the Susan B. Anthony List, expressed her approval for the promises made in the letter.

"Not only has Mr. Trump doubled down on his three existing commitments to the pro-life movement, he has gone a step further in pledging to protect the Hyde Amendment and the conscience rights of millions of pro-life taxpayers," Dannenfelser said.

"For a candidate to make additional commitments during a general election is almost unheard of. The contrast could not be clearer between the two tickets," she added.

Last May, pro-life advocates hailed Trump's move to appoint pro-life congressional aide John Mashburn as a key domestic policy advisor. Mashburn has previously worked with pro-life lawmakers such as Senate Republican leader Trent Lott and North Carolina Sen. Thom Tillis.

In an interview on the Brody File last February, Trump expressed his belief that Roe v. Wade can be overturned. "It's been very strongly decided but it can be changed," the candidate said. Trump has been known to be pro-choice before his candidacy. The Ted Cruz campaign has previously warned against trusting Trump with regards to abortion.