Parents Outraged As Planned Parenthood Funds School Board Candidates

Planned Parenthood’s decision to back candidates in Pennsylvania school board elections is sparking backlash from parents who say the organization’s influence is inappropriate and dangerous. The federally subsidized nonprofit has announced plans to fund campaigns aligned with its progressive values, raising concerns about the role of advocacy groups in public education.

Critics argue that Planned Parenthood’s agenda undermines parental authority by introducing explicit sexual education and gender ideology into classrooms. The organization also provides medical treatments, such as hormone therapies for minors, which many families believe are inappropriate without parental consent.

Gov. Josh Shapiro’s administration has maintained close ties with Planned Parenthood. Shapiro met with its leaders early in his term to discuss expanding abortion access. Lindsey Mauldin, a former Planned Parenthood employee, serves as his deputy chief of staff, underscoring the group’s influence in state government.

Conservative groups like Moms for Liberty have mobilized against this effort. Tina Descovich, the group’s co-founder, criticized Planned Parenthood’s actions, stating, “Their involvement in school board elections is a blatant attempt to push their radical agenda, and it’s unacceptable.”

Planned Parenthood has also invested in training teachers on controversial topics. Newsletters reveal that the organization has provided workshops covering gender ideology, which opponents argue promote divisive ideas rather than fostering genuine education.

As Planned Parenthood expands its efforts to influence public schools, parents and local advocates are calling for greater oversight to ensure that education decisions remain in the hands of families and communities, not outside organizations.