Wisconsin state Rep. Joel Kitchens (R-Sturgeon Bay) speaks in the Wisconsin Assembly Chamber on Jan. 25, 2024 in Madison, Wis. (Screenshot via WisconsinEye)

While debating Assembly Bill 975, legislation that would introduce a 14-week abortion ban referendum if passed, Wisconsin state Rep. Joel Kitchens (R-Sturgeon Bay) said he knows that abortion is not health care because he was a veterinarian.

On Thursday, Kitchens advocated in favor of AB 975 on the basis that abortion is not health care. He also cited his experience giving animals ultrasounds as basis for his expertise on the issue.

“I did thousands of ultrasounds on animals, determining pregnancy and that sort of thing” Kitchens ascertained. “I think I know mammalian fetal development better than probably anyone here. And in my mind, there’s absolutely no question that’s a life.”

The 66-year-old Kitchens represents Wisconsin’s First Legislative District and was first elected to the Assembly in 2014.