The Arizona Supreme Court’s decision on Tuesday to allow a 1864 law restricting abortion to go into effect has sparked a political battle that could shape the 2024 election. The law prohibits abortion unless the mother’s life is in danger, with no exceptions for rape or incest. Democrats, including Attorney General Kris Mayes, blame former President Donald Trump for the loss of abortion access, citing his appointments to the U.S. Supreme Court. President Joe Biden and his allies are calling for a national law to restore abortion rights, while Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs criticizes Republicans for attacking women’s rights.
The ruling makes Arizona the state with the strictest abortion law among the six top battleground states for the upcoming election. Georgia also has strict abortion laws, while other states like Nevada, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania allow abortions up to 20 weeks or later. President Biden and Democratic Senate candidate Ruben Gallego are focusing on abortion rights as a central campaign issue. The ruling is expected to energize efforts by abortion rights advocates to put a ballot measure before voters to restore the right to abortion, potentially impacting the legislative majority in Arizona.
The political implications of the ruling in Arizona could be significant, with voters showing strong support for abortion rights in a broad survey of the electorate. Most Arizona voters believe abortion should be legal in most or all cases, with the overturning of Roe v. Wade being a key factor in their voting decisions. Planned Parenthood plans to continue providing abortions up to 15 weeks, as allowed by Arizona courts, despite the new law. The old law, part of the Howell Code enacted in 1864, has been in effect in some form since Arizona was a territory and remained in the penal code through various revisions.
The decision has reignited the debate over abortion rights in Arizona and across the country, setting the stage for a contentious political battle in the 2024 election. Democrats are rallying to protect reproductive rights and push for a national law guaranteeing access to legal abortion. The ruling has drawn criticism from activists and lawmakers, with concerns about the impact on women’s health and autonomy. As the issue continues to shape the political landscape, both parties are gearing up for a fight that could play a crucial role in determining the next president and Senate majority. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
