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Abortion on the Ballot: These States Said Yes to Life

This past Tuesday, several states held votes on abortion laws. While some states chose to erode protections for the unborn, others affirmed their commitment to life.

Ten states across the nation faced ballot measures this Tuesday that cut to the core of the pro-life versus pro-abortion debate. Pro-choice advocates, relentless in their pursuit, aimed not just to undermine existing pro-life protections but to cement the right to abortion—up to the moment of birth—into state constitutions. Yet, despite their vigorous efforts, the outcomes were a mixed bag, with victories for life in states like Florida, Nebraska, and South Dakota offering a glimmer of hope.

In Florida, the defeat of Amendment 4, which sought to permit third-trimester abortions under the guise of mental health, marks a significant victory for those of us who champion the sanctity of life. The failure of this amendment is a testament to the tireless work of the pro-life community and the leadership of Governor Ron DeSantis, who stands as a bulwark against the tide of pro-abortion extremism. 

The outcome in Florida was a crucial win, demonstrating that when leaders like DeSantis step up and pro-life citizens engage, the narrative can be shifted, and the lives of the unborn can be safeguarded. Thanks to this collective effort, Florida has set a new standard for how to combat and defeat radical pro-abortion measures effectively.

The Fight to Protect the Unborn Continues

Contrastingly, states like Nevada, Arizona, Colorado, and Missouri have taken a regressive step by declaring abortion a fundamental right, thereby stripping away any semblance of rights for the unborn. These decisions not only undermine the moral fabric of our society but also expose a disturbing trend toward valuing convenience over life. The language used in these amendments often masks their radical nature, deceiving voters about the true implications of what they are supporting.

It’s disheartening to see states like Missouri, which had been a beacon of pro-life advocacy, succumb to such extreme measures, further exacerbated by the misleading rhetoric surrounding these amendments. Advocates in these states have distorted the truth to push through laws that are more extreme than anything seen even in liberal bastions like California or New York.

As pro-life advocates, we must recognize these setbacks not as defeats but as calls to action. The passage of such laws in seven states highlights the monumental task before us—to educate, to mobilize, and to advocate for life at every turn. We must expose the deceptive tactics employed by the pro-abortion camp and fight to ensure that every life, born and unborn, is valued and protected.

We are called to persevere, to stand firm in our convictions, and to continue our advocacy, knowing that each small victory contributes to the broader goal of making abortion not just illegal but unthinkable. The fight for life is far from over, and with committed leaders and a mobilized community, we can look forward to more victories like those in Florida, Nebraska, and South Dakota.

Jay Shepard

Jay Shepard

Jay is a Director of The American Center for Education and Knowledge, a 501-c3 non-profit committed to protecting the ideals of individual rights, freedom of will and personal responsibility while defending American exceptionalism. Jay was elected as the National Committeeman to the Republican National Committee for Vermont in both 2012, 2016 and 2020.