After the overturning of Roe v Wade in summer of 2022, states had the right to rule on abortion rights in their borders. Since states of all different ideological backgrounds can choose how to provide abortion to their constituents, there are 5 main categories for states: expanded access, protected, not protected, hostile, and illegal. Generally states that fit with Democratic beliefs are more accepting of abortion rights, while states that side with Republican ideals are not. Here, we discuss recent moves made from Arizona.
Arizona historically leaned Republican, as they consistently voted for Republican candidates from the 1950s through the early 2000s, but has become more politically competitive in recent years, with shifting demographics and changing attitudes leading to increased Democratic activity. In the 2020 presidential election, Arizona voted for the Democratic candidate, Joe Biden, for the first time in decades, reflecting a significant shift in its political landscape and making Arizona more mixed rather than stuck to one side.
Recently, Arizona’s Supreme Court has ruled in favor of enforcing an 1864 law that would make abortion punishable by two to five years in prison, except when the mother’s life is at risk. The court’s justification for this ruling was because there no federal or state protections for the procedure. The decision could lead to the closure of all abortion clinics in the state, potentially leading to increased unsafe abortions. It also sets a concerning legal precedent, worsens political divisions, and may disproportionately impact marginalized communities.
Public response is unfavorable of this ruling on both sides alike– Democrats and Republicans. Democrats generally wish for an expanded acceptance of abortion, sitting with the pro-choice view, so they are not in favor of this ruling. Although many may believe that Republicans would be ecstatic about this ruling, they have their own concerns. This includes the ruling’s impact on reproductive rights, healthcare access, and public health. Additionally, they may view the decision as government overreach and a violation of individual freedoms, which is a core value.
There are a few possible public policy approaches that could be taken, and some are being taken now. State activists claim they have already surpassed the signature threshold necessary to present the issue to voters this fall. Additionally, many individuals can push their representatives to propose a bill that could limit or amend the 1864 law, effectively overturning it.
Ayan Kumar's Blog 