In Florida, it takes a 13-year-old to talk sense

13-year-old for whom the state is trying to prohibit an abortion: "Why can't I make my own decision?

Judge: "I don't know."

13-year-old: "You don't know? Aren't you the judge?"


That was how it went at the Palm Beach hearing to determine a matter that is already perfectly clear in state law. Florida permits adolescents to have abortions without their guardian's permission. The state of Florida is the girl's guardian. What could be more cut and dried?

Ah, but this is Florida, where the law can be twisted and turned every time someone wants to promote a "culture of life" or a culture of making sure votes do not count.