WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Douglas R. Scott, president of Life Decisions International (LDI), today accused the Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) of "relying on name familiarity and style" when it selected a new leader. Leftist political activist Cecile Richards, daughter of former Texas Governor Ann Richards, "has no qualifications to lead a group that touts itself as a "healthcare" provider," Scott said. "Richards has been chosen because she will bring a fresh style and recognized name to the pro-abortion movement. And more importantly, she will move political activity to the forefront, just as was done under former PPFA President Faye Wattleton."

Richards, 48, has served as deputy chief of staff to Nancy Pelosi, the minority leader in the U.S. House of Representatives, founded the Texas Freedom Network to fight the influence of conservative organizations in the state, and worked as president of America Votes, a coalition of leftist groups that seeks to increase voter registration among liberals.

"The selection of Richards should be a clear sign that Planned Parenthood can be expected to intensify the spread of its radical pro-abortion philosophy," Scott said. "Since Planned Parenthood has chosen a leader who has been more involved in politics than in so-called healthcare, it is quite obvious that the group will become more active, more belligerent and even more out of the mainstream over the next several years. If the good people in the Pro-Family Movement think they have experienced the full impact of an activist Planned Parenthood, they are completely wrong. The biggest battles are yet to come."

Scott said the pick proves that Planned Parenthood is far more interested in advancing a social agenda than it is in providing "healthcare." He also said the group's new boss can be expected to employ any and all means to achieve her radical agenda. "We are talking about a group of people who believe the ends justify the means. And they will not rest until their worldview has been imposed on all human beings."

"Pro-family people can still win this fight. This will be a war of attrition. Victory will belong to those with perseverance and patience; those who are willing to sacrifice for the cause."