CONWAY, South Carolina — Joe Biden said that the United States should fund organizations that help women in poor countries get abortions as part of an answer to a question about overpopulation and women’s empowerment.
The former vice president appeared to be wrapping up his town hall on Thursday before being prompted to answer one last question.
“Climate change is a very serious breath for the environment. Another serious issue is overpopulation,” an audience member said. “The majority of the world’s population growth takes place in the poorest countries in the world, where women aren’t being empowered. What will you do to help empower women in the world’s poorest countries?”
The question prompted a long, 20-minute response from the 2020 Democratic presidential candidate.
Biden noted that the populations in many developed countries have declined, stated that the U.S. should be an example of a global standard for treatment of women, and said programs that help women generate economic growth in those countries should be funded. He then subtly suggested that the U.S. should help those women get access to abortions.
“I strongly oppose the limitations on the ability for the United States to contribute to organizations in these countries that, in fact, provide women’s health alternatives for choice,” Biden said, prompting applause from the crowd of more than 1,900 people.
Biden was referencing the Mexico City policy, or “global gag rule,” which prevents federal funds from going to foreign organizations that promote or practice abortion, including by giving counseling on abortion or referrals for abortions. President Trump reinstated the policy when he took office.
The former vice president went on to talk about crafting and passing the Violence Against Women Act, one of his more famous accomplishments, the history of women’s equality, and the changing culture surrounding gender issues.
“No man has a right to lay a hand on a woman for any reason other than self-defense,” Biden said. “If someone in this room got up, took off all their clothes, and walked out the door, no man has a right to touch her.”
Several dozen attendees trickled out of the room as Biden delivered his final answer of the evening.
