Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp (R) acknowledged the displeasure of many in Hollywood over the recent passage of a controversial “heartbeat” abortion law.
“I understand that some folks don’t like this new law. I’m fine with that,” Kemp said Saturday. “We’re elected to do what’s right — and standing up for precious life is always the right thing to do.”
The new law, which bans abortions in the state of Georgia after a fetus’ heartbeat is detected (this can occur as early as six weeks), is set to go into effect on January 1, 2020.
The Republican Party is the “party of freedom and opportunity. We value and protect innocent life — even though that makes C-list celebrities squawk,” Kemp added.
Several Hollywood celebrities, whom Kemp refer to as “C-list,” have shown their displeasure with the new law.
Actor Jason Bateman has actively spoken out and threatened to boycott filming in the state.
“If the ‘heartbeat bill’ makes it through the court system, I will not work in Georgia, or any other state, that is so disgracefully at odds with women’s rights,” Bateman told The Hollywood Reporter.
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Bateman stars in the Netflix show, Ozark, and produces the HBO show, The Outsider, both of which are filming in Georgia.
Many other celebrities have signed a letter vowing to boycott the state, including Ben Stiller, Alec Baldwin, Sean Penn, Mia Farrow and Christina Applegate.
