Arizona GOP Senate candidate Kari Lake has recently made conflicting statements regarding the state’s near-total abortion ban dating back to 1864. Previously, Lake had called on state legislators to repeal the law, but in a recent interview with the Idaho Dispatch, she expressed disappointment that the law is not being enforced by Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs and Attorney General Kris Mayes, both Democrats. Lake acknowledged the recent court decision upholding the 1864 law, stating that despite her wishes, the current leadership in Arizona has chosen not to enforce it. Her comments have received backlash from both Democrats and groups that support abortion rights.
During a campaign stop in Idaho, where Lake was the keynote speaker at a local county Republican Party dinner, she responded to criticism from anti-abortion group Idaho Chooses Life by stating that the Arizona Supreme Court ruling on the 1864 abortion ban is not in line with the views of the people of Arizona. Lake emphasized the importance of exceptions for rape, incest, and the life of the mother, which are not included in the 1864 ban. This marks a change in Lake’s stance on the law, as she had previously called it a “great law” during her gubernatorial campaign in 2022. Her likely Democratic opponent, Rep. Ruben Gallego, has criticized Lake for advocating for a ban on abortion that could result in criminal charges for healthcare providers.
Despite facing criticism from both Democrats and individuals on both sides of the abortion debate, Lake has not backed down from her support of the 1864 abortion ban. At a campaign stop at the University of Arizona, she faced opposition on the issue, with one attendee expressing disappointment in her shifting stance on abortion. Lake responded by highlighting the difficult situations that some women may face, such as being in abusive relationships or being victims of rape, and stressed the need for compassion and understanding in discussions on abortion policy. However, her comments have continued to draw scrutiny from various groups and opponents.
As the Arizona Supreme Court’s ruling on the 1864 abortion ban potentially comes into effect in June, Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes may face legal challenges should she choose to block prosecutions under the law. The ruling makes performing an abortion or assisting a woman in obtaining one a felony punishable by two to five years in prison. Mayes’ office has indicated that the law could take effect as early as June 8, raising concerns among those who support abortion rights and healthcare providers in the state. Lake’s shifting comments on the law and abortion policy have added to the ongoing debate and controversy surrounding the issue in Arizona and beyond.
Overall, Kari Lake’s evolving stance on Arizona’s 1864 abortion ban has sparked criticism and controversy, as she navigates the complexities of a polarizing issue. While she initially called for the repeal of the law, Lake has since expressed disappointment that it is not being enforced, prompting backlash from various groups and individuals. Her comments on the need for exceptions in the law, such as in cases of rape, incest, and threats to the mother’s life, have been met with differing reactions from different quarters. With the potential implementation of the law in June, Arizona’s Attorney General may have to confront legal challenges and further scrutiny as the state grapples with the implications of the 1864 abortion ban.
