WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Deborah Pryce (R-15) today issued the following statement regarding Teresa Heinz Kerry’s recent remarks to Harper’s Bazaar: When asked how she felt about the term “First Lady” during a recent interview with Kenneth Cole for October’s issue, Heinz Kerry responded with “Ick” (Source: New York Post, 9/14/04).

“Today, as we learn of Mrs. Kerry’s thoughts on ascending to the White House, I must say I appreciate her honesty on the matter. Unlike her yes-no-yes husband, Mrs. Kerry makes it bitingly clear where she stands. As the American public continues to evaluate the candidates for the presidential election, comments like Mrs. Kerry’s provide an authentic glimpse at this year’s prospects for the White House.

“A President’s job is hard enough. He needs all the support he can get—support that starts at home. America knows that behind every successful President is a devoted, strong, and supportive woman,” Pryce said. “As Mrs. Bush visits my home state of Ohio today, I am proud to have a First Lady in office who has embraced leadership with class, backed her husband unconditionally with grace, and represents the values every woman can admire.

“On the other hand, a woman who tells members of the press to ‘shove it’, calls anyone who opposes her ideas an ‘idiot’, and reacts to the idea of being First Lady as if she were being presented with a dirty diaper—Mrs. Kerry has showed the American people that being their First Lady falls last on her list of priorities.”

About Congresswoman Pryce:

Deborah Pryce represents the Fifteenth District of Ohio, which includes Western Franklin County, Madison, and Union Counties. She serves as Chairman of the House Republican Conference for the 108th Congress, making her the fourth ranking member of House leadership. The Congresswoman also co-chairs the Cancer Caucus.