Let's start with a reality check. Randall Terry does not speak for the broader pro-life movement. It's important to note that just because Randall Terry from Operation Rescue speaks out forcefully againt abortion doctor George Tiller that does not mean his sentiment is shared among mainstream pro-life groups.
You don't need to believe me. Just compare Operation Rescue's website with Concerned Women for America or Americans United for Life and on and on. The sanctity of life message is the underlying theme but the tactics and language are different. Much different.
Here's the deal. I get it. I've been in the Tv business more than 20 years now and I understand the media's fascination with a good vs. evil scenario. There is always a narrative to every story. But Randall Terry's remarks and Scott Roeder's alleged action against Tiller are not what pro-lifers are really about. Don't get me wrong. Pro-lifers are frustrated and yes angry about the deaths of millions of these aborted babies. But you will not see the bulk of pro-life groups engage in violent rhetoric. It's plain false.
Having said all that, the broader pro-life movement realizes that gunning down Tiller in cold blood does not help their cause at all. The challenge now is for these groups to use this moment as a pivot point and figure out a way and even a new strategy to combat the false stereotype of angry, violent pro-lifers.