(NewsSpace.com) – When the Supreme Court overturned the landmark case of Roe v. Wade in its Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision last year, it returned rights to the states, many of which enacted bans. Activists immediately started working to safeguard abortion rights for women across the country and have been largely successful in their efforts over the past 18 months, but they still have a long way to go.
Immediate Effects
A controversial issue such as abortion is undoubtedly a way for political parties to rally their voter bases, and that’s exactly what Democrats did following the overturning of Roe. They took the outrage over the decision and turned it into activism, and the impact was immediately felt just months later during the 2022 midterm elections. What was projected to be a red wave turned into a disappointing evening for Republicans, who saw minimal gains, and many cited the SCOTUS decision for increased voter turnout.
Voters Win In Several States
While several states, including Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Tennessee, had laws ready to go into effect, activists also immediately went to work. Many states, including Ohio, put abortion on the ballot, leaving the issue up to voters to determine whether or not to preserve the procedure as a constitutional right. Those in the Buckeye State spoke loud and clear, approving an amendment to protect access.
Other states did the same, notably Montana, Vermont, Kansas, Kentucky, California, and Michigan. Now, activists in other states are busy working to garner signatures to help get the referendum on other ballots, including in swing states such as Nevada, Florida, and Arizona. It’s creating a conundrum for Republicans who find themselves shut down on the issue, even when it comes to “reasonable” bans, those allowed up until 15 weeks gestation.
Democrats are also largely outspending the GOP, making sure their message is heard by voters. The issue is also expected to play a significant role in the 2024 presidential election.
Not Everyone Is Winning
While activists are definitely gaining ground, there are some notable exceptions, particularly in Texas. Governor Greg Abbott (R) is very outspoken about his pro-life stance, and the state has even gone so far as to make carrying out abortions a criminal act that will see doctors facing felony charges and significant penalties.
Kate Cox, who challenged the ban due to a fetal diagnosis of trisomy 18, a condition with very low survival rates, lost her battle and had to leave the state to have the procedure done.
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