Sen. Angela Turner Ford: We practiced law together so that there was also a void. There was also the void in business, the void as a father, and then there was “OK, can I really delve into a new office?” Mississippi Today: It is well-known that the state legislators do not reflect the state’s citizens. What is the reason why it is important for the Legislature move towards a more accurate demographic reflection? Sen. Angela Turner Ford: A body of representatives must reflect the diverse communities it serves. There is no fine-tuning. If there isn’t diversity within the group, you will end up with the same thing you have done over and over again. It is evident in education policies, road and bridge policies, mental health issues, and it even shows up in policies. Women are responsible for educating their children, taking care of their sick relatives, driving and talking to teachers. It won’t be heard if there aren’t enough women speaking it. As a legislator, I know that it is important to encourage and identify women who can benefit the body. This is possible, and you can participate. You’ve got what it takes. As an individual, you cannot accomplish anything in this legislative body. You need support and Jackson’s women need it more. These (bills ideas) didn’t just fall out of thin air. This is being promoted by someone. This is someone’s agenda. As I listen to the bill being debated and deliberated, I am trying to ask myself, “Is there any unforeseen consequence?” It affects who? It is who you want it to be? It helps who? “Who does it hurt?” These are the questions I ask myself before I ever get on the microphone to ask any verbal questions. While I am not the most intelligent woman in Mississippi, I also know there are many others who are just as capable and willing to share their lives, education, and other backgrounds. Mississippi Today: What can the Legislature do to improve women’s health care in Mississippi? Sen. Angela Turner Ford: It’s all about being open-mined. The issue of women’s health care goes beyond a single story in the media. It’s about giving sufficient thought to health-related issues and trying to find a solution. This is not just about a political position. We know that certain bills are vulnerable to being challenged. Mississippi Today: Do you like the (abortion-related) heartbeat bill? Sen. Angela Turner-Ford: Yes. How much impact will it have on the overall issues facing women? It’s better to be more pragmatic about the problems we face and how we deal with them than philosophical or political positions. Mississippi Today:So what’s being done (for women?)?