State Sen. Jennifer Shilling
Press Release

Justice Bradley’s Defense of Rapists

Justice Rebecca Bradley has refused to apologize for previous statements she made arguing that women “play a role in date rape.”

By - Mar 21st, 2016 12:11 pm
Rebecca Bradley

Rebecca Bradley

MADISON, WI – Over the past two weeks, Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Rebecca Bradley has refused to apologize for previous statements she made arguing that women “play a role in date rape.” Gov. Walker, who appointed Bradley to the position, has defended the embattled Justice while also dodging questions about his vetting process.

“Judges are supposed to stand up and protect victims, not shame them,” said Sen. Jennifer Shilling (D-La Crosse). “Justice Bradley’s statement reveals a fundamental misunderstanding of our criminal justice system and a lack of respect for women. If she is unable or unwilling to respect the rights of women and prosecute criminals to the fullest extent under the law, she is unfit to serve on our state’s highest court.”

While studying at Marquette University, Rebecca Bradley argued that it was “legitimate” to believe that “women play a role in date rape.” Despite attempts to walk back other previous statements, Justice Bradley has refused to disavow her comments blaming victims of rape. Justice Bradley has stood by her previous statements equating birth control to murder and arguing that pharmacists should deny contraceptive coverage to women who have a prescription.

“Gov. Walker clearly didn’t do his homework before appointing Justice Bradley to the bench,” added Shilling. “The statements made by Justice Bradley represent a horrible, misinformed and completely irresponsible view of the challenges facing women in our state. She owes families an apology.”

Jennifer Shilling serves as the Wisconsin Senate Democratic Leader. She represents the 32nd State Senate District which includes La Crosse, Vernon, Crawford, and part of Monroe Counties.

Shilling for Senate

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.

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