Governor defends role in condom controversy

[Freddie Stubbs]

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS


SPRINGFIELD – Gov. Rod Blagojevich's administration on Wednesday defended its decision to stop distributing flavored and colored condoms that health activists consider helpful in fighting AIDS, even as dozens of people rallied at the Capitol to remember victims of the disease.

At the Capitol and other state buildings, lights were dimmed to mark World AIDS Day. Blagojevich called it "a time to reaffirm our commitment to promoting HIV/AIDS awareness, education and prevention."

But some health workers said they were disappointed that Blagojevich had ordered the Illinois Department of Public Health not to buy any more condoms in bright colors or flavors for distribution to clinics and local health agencies.

The Public Health Department has given clinics and health agencies about 360,000 flavored condoms and 910,000 colored condoms this year. That is in addition to the millions of ordinary condoms it provides every year. This year, the state has spent more than $117,000 on condoms.

more: http://www.nwherald.com/MainSection/local/288574577789652.php

[Nicholas D Wolfwood]

1. As long as he's still in favor of regular condoms, what's the point?

Do we really need colors and flavors?

[Kitka]

2. I agree.

Let's save our outrage.

[Tweed]

3. Wow! They figured out a way to try and piss off everyone!

This journalist is a genius if they don't like Blago. Anyone who skims the article (which most people do) will think that Blago is taking away ALL condoms. Anyone who thinks that condoms shouldn't be handed out for free is mad at Blago because such a program exists in the first place. What a great piece of journalism. Damn it's great to be an American.

[Radical Activist]

4. How dumb

Who does it hurt to have colored condoms? If it gets a few more people to use them, then they are a good thing. He backed down just because a few prudes made him scared of appearing too liberal or some BS. From the rumors going around it sounds like Blago would have been wise to use some of those condoms for himself.

[renaissanceguy]

5. I think that we're making too big a deal about this.

He's not doing away with condoms, so what's the point. Besides, the flavored condoms taste horrible.

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