Candidate Responses
Favors abortion rights
"I have always believed in a woman's right to choose. It is a decision that should be safe, legal, rare and - above all - between a woman and her doctor," Dodd said in a statement to NARAL Pro-Choice America
Dodd opposed the constitutional amendment, although he says he supports civil unions and not gay marriage.
In a 2007 interview when asked the difference between the two, Dodd said, "I don't think probably much in people's minds. If you're allowing that, all the protections you have there, you've covered it."
Supports same-sex civil unions
"With two young daughters of my own, I want to ensure that they grow up in a world that is free of discrimination. That is why I supported Civil Unions in my home state," Dodd said on his web site.
Opposes troop increase and would cap at about 130,000. Favors withdrawing U.S. troops now from worst parts of Baghdad. Voted for war spending bill that would have withdrawn most U.S. troops by March 2008.
"I accept the basic idea of better border security you need to be talking with (Mexico) to get cooperation, border security can't be on just one side of the fence," he said in an interview with the Des Moines Register.
Voted for 2006 bill offering legal status to illegal immigrants subject to conditions, including English proficiency and payment of back taxes and fines.
Says the U.S. should negotiate directly with Iran, and also with Syria
Supports relaxing restrictions on federal financing of embryonic stem cell research.
Would repeal tax breaks for wealthiest Americans. Opposed 2001 and 2003 tax cuts and opposed extension through 2010. Supports tax incentives for businesses that invest in employee health care, pensions and innovation.
Dodd has proposed a “Universal Healthmart,” similar to what is offered federal employees and would require all children to be under the plan. Americans could keep their existing health coverage, or enroll in this new plan. Fees – for both businesses and individuals – would be based on an ability to pay.
He proposes paying for it through employer and employee premiums, reducing inefficiencies in the existing system and revenues coming from ending the war in Iraq.
