Doe does not shy away from this; in fact, he claims a leading role. From 2013 to 2015, his suit states, Doe says he “conducted an extensive undercover investigation of Planned Parenthood,” including its “abortion services” and “fetal tissue donation and research program.” He characterizes this as “direct, independent, unique, and personal knowledge obtained during and after the investigation of Planned Parenthood.” Though he has remained anonymous in the suit, in an effort to bolster his own credibility, he essentially admits that he was part of the Center for Medical Progress sting video operation, taking credit in the lawsuit for publishing undercover videos of Planned Parenthood to YouTube himself. This isn’t about fraud, which that same anti-abortion group has engaged in. It’s about vindication.
Consider all that in light of Doe’s lawsuit, which could bankrupt Planned Parenthood, closing clinics in Texas and possibly elsewhere. “I know the state wants to punish Planned Parenthood for being an abortion provider,” said Dr. Amna Dermish, chief medical officer of Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas, “but all you’re doing is punishing patients.” But punishing patients is precisely the goal for Doe and Paxton—and why, no doubt, they’ve brought their case to Kacsmaryk’s court.