Kasich's advice to young women: avoid boozy parties
John Kasich faced backlash Friday after advising a college student to avoid going to "parties with lots of alcohol" when she inquired about how he would work to protect women from sexual violence if elected President.
The first-year college student at St. Lawrence University asked Kasich how he would help her "feel safer" during a town hall event he hosted in Watertown, NY.
Kasich started off by rattling off list of initiatives that he's taken in the state of Ohio to assist women in cases of sexual violence, such as pushing for access to rape kits and more opportunities to confidentially pursue justice.
Then he suggested she steer clear of parties: "I would also give you one bit of advice: don't go to parties where there's a lot of alcohol, ok?"
Planned Parenthood quickly responded, calling John Kasich's "pattern of dismissing the concerns of women" disturbing.
"John Kasich's plan for combatting sexual assault as president is to blame women who go to parties", said Planned Parenthood Vice President, Dawn Laguens in a statement.
Kasich, who has two daughters, later clarified that he did not believe victims of sexual assault should be deemed responsible said he's "probably one of the leaders in making sure that women have a safe place to go".
"I think about the threats that happen to our young women on college campuses and make no mistake the perpetrators have to be prosecuted tot he full extent of the law", he said.
Kasich further defended his advice to avoid alcohol suggesting it "obscures the ability of people to seek justice" in cases of violence.
At least one Kasich supporter didn't think his comments today will have a lasting impact on his standing in the race. "I think it's sound advice", said Adrienne Sniezek of Utica, NY. "He's sounding like a parent."
Kasich is campaigning throughout New York State, where he currently placed second in most polling in the days leading up to Tuesday's primary behind Manhattan businessman Donald Trump.