The Woman’s March in Massachusetts ahead of Election Day drew hundreds of participants in support of Vice President Kamala Harris and abortion access. People gathered in Boston Common, holding signs that read, “We won’t go back” and “Abortion is health care,” with some men joining in as well. Similar marches took place in Washington, D.C., and Kansas City, Missouri, with speakers urging people to vote in the upcoming election, emphasizing that abortion is on the ballot in nine states. Rev. Dr. Deborah Haffner of First Unitarian Universalist Society in Newton, Massachusetts, asked attendees to show their commitment to voting and their anticipation for having a woman president.
Tracy Murphy, the organizer of the women’s march in Massachusetts, stressed the importance of encouraging everyone to vote, regardless of the election’s outcome. The issue of abortion has gained prominence in the 2024 election following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade in June 2022, resulting in abortion regulations reverting to the state level. With abortion being a key concern for many female voters, the upcoming election will see nine states considering constitutional amendments to guarantee abortion rights. A recent Fox News poll conducted in March 2024 revealed a record number of voters supporting the legalization of abortion, with the majority favoring a nationwide law to ensure access.
Former President Trump has shifted his stance on abortion during the current election cycle, hoping to appeal to independents and some disaffected Democrats while potentially alienating his pro-life base. Trump opposes a federal abortion ban but remains steadfast against late-term abortions. On the other hand, Vice President Kamala Harris has accused Trump of worsening healthcare for women by nominating conservative justices to the Supreme Court who voted to overturn Roe v. Wade. Harris aims to restore national abortion rights legislation eliminated after the landmark case, as well as protect access to the abortion drug mifepristone, which she deems as essential medication.
The abortion debate has become a significant issue in the 2024 election, with various polls indicating growing support for a woman’s right to choose. A Fox News survey demonstrated a notable increase in support for abortion legalization since Roe v. Wade was overturned, with a majority of voters across different demographics backing the idea of legal access to abortion. Trump’s evolving stance on abortion and Harris’ advocacy for women’s healthcare have highlighted the diverging viewpoints on reproductive rights within the current political landscape. As the election approaches, the conversation around abortion access continues to evolve, shaping the outlook for future reproductive health policies and legislation.
