An Idaho Republican said he's 'embarrassed' and apologized after comparing women's health to having 'milked a few cows'

• An Idaho Republican said his experience milking dairy cows offered insights into reproductive healthcare.
• Idaho Rep. Jack Nelsen apologized for the comment, saying he respected women's "right to choose."

A newly-elected Idaho lawmaker apologized after he compared reproductive health policies to his experience milking cows as a farmer.

Republican Rep. Jack Nelsen said he was "embarrassed" that he suggested his experience as a "lifelong dairy farmer" offered him insight into reproductive issues, according to the Idaho Statesman.

"I've milked a few cows, spent most of my time walking behind lines of cows, so if you want some ideas on repro and the women's health thing, I have some definite opinions," Nelson said with a laugh during a meeting of the state's House Agricultural Affairs Committee, per the Statesman.

The comment sparked an immediate backlash from Idaho's Democratic party, who tweeted a video of the incident, adding that "politicians like Jack Nelsen have no business mandating our reproductive health care decisions."

In a statement to Insider, Nelsen said he was "very sorry" for his remarks.

"I sincerely apologize for the way I phrased my statement regarding women and reproductive rights. It missed the mark and I am very sorry. I have always believed and continue to believe the government does not belong in the doctor's office. I am committed to doing better," Nelsen told Insider.

Earlier this month, the US Supreme Court upheld Idaho's near-total abortion ban, which has exceptions for rape, incest, and saving a pregnant patient's life.