For voters, abortion remains a significant issue in the 2024 election, with three out of four voters deeming it important or very important, according to an August 13 poll by The Economist/YouGov.
As the September 10 debate between Trump and Harris approaches, The Epoch Times examined both candidates’ stances on abortion.
While we observed some areas of agreement, broader disagreements emerged, and some positions remain unclear, according to experts.
Here’s an overview of each candidate’s approach to abortion policy.
Trump’s Position Trump’s views on abortion have evolved over time. He initially identified as pro-choice in the 1990s but shifted to a pro-life stance by 2011. He often highlights his role in appointing three Supreme Court justices, whose votes led to the 2022 overturning of Roe v. Wade.
Despite his pro-life claims, Trump's post-Roe stance has sparked confusion and criticism, even among supporters. He has opposed a national abortion ban, suggesting it should be left to states. However, he has voiced concern over Florida’s six-week abortion ban, calling it “too short” and advocating for a longer window, though without specifying an exact timeline.
Trump’s stance has drawn mixed reactions from pro-life advocates, with some criticizing him for what they view as a retreat from more aggressive anti-abortion policies. For instance, Lila Rose, founder of Live Action, expressed concern over Trump’s wavering commitment to the pro-life cause.
His recent comments on supporting IVF, a procedure that raises ethical concerns due to the destruction of embryos, have also raised questions within the pro-life community.
Harris’s Position Vice President Kamala Harris has consistently advocated for abortion as a fundamental right. She supports federal legislation that would restore the rights provided under Roe v. Wade and allows for abortion access until fetal viability, generally around 22–24 weeks. Harris is also a proponent of IVF and allowing abortion-inducing drugs to be delivered by mail.
While she has been endorsed by organizations like Planned Parenthood Action, some within her party argue she hasn’t fully articulated her stance, particularly on late-term abortion.
The Future of Abortion Policy Trump’s state-focused approach contrasts with Harris’s support for national abortion rights. Advocates on both sides seek broader solutions, but the political climate remains divided. Some experts argue that access to abortion should not be dependent on geography, while others emphasize the 14th Amendment’s protections for life, sparking ongoing debate over how best to address abortion at the national level.
Both sides of the debate agree that the needs of women should not be overlooked in the political conversation.
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