St. Joe-Benton Harbor News

Brad Paquette, a Michigan state representative, has recently posted a series of statements on social media addressing contentious issues related to medical treatments for minors and abortion laws in Michigan.

On August 24, 2025, Paquette expressed strong opposition to certain medical interventions for children. He wrote, "Those in favor of chemically castrating children contend that pumping a child full of steroids gives a short-term psychological boost... so it's good. A modern-day atrocity unfolding before our very eyes."

The following day, on August 25, 2025, Paquette commented on abortion policies in the state. He stated, '"My body, my choice" continues to be the norm as abortion up until birth has become widely accepted in Michigan. A fully developed baby in the womb is seen as not a body with zero protections at all. There are now zero protections for a baby up until it is born, even if it'.

On August 26, 2025, Paquette referenced an action involving the University of Michigan (UofM), writing: "UofM to stop experimenting on children due to federal subpoena."

Paquette's comments come amid ongoing debates about gender-affirming care for minors and reproductive rights in Michigan. In recent years, Michigan has seen legislative changes regarding both topics. The state passed Proposal 3 in November 2022, enshrining reproductive freedom into its constitution and expanding access to abortion services. Additionally, discussions around gender-affirming healthcare have intensified nationwide as lawmakers consider new regulations and oversight concerning treatments provided to minors.