In a surprising turn of events, Ohio, a state that voted for Donald Trump in the 2020 presidential election, has now adopted a constitutional amendment to protect the right to abortion. This marks the sixth consecutive victory for pro-choice advocates since the Supreme Court’s decision to revisit Roe v. Wade in June 2022. With over two-thirds of the ballots counted, Ohioans overwhelmingly approved the amendment, guaranteeing the right to make and implement decisions regarding abortion, contraception, fertility treatments, and miscarriages.
A Series of Referendums in Favor of Abortion Rights
Since the Supreme Court’s decision to review the landmark abortion case, pro-choice activists across the country have been mobilizing efforts to secure the right to abortion at the state level. The Ohio referendum victory is the latest in a series of wins for those defending reproductive rights. This trend highlights the growing support for ensuring women’s autonomy over their bodies despite the political climate.
Ohioans Make Their Voices Heard
The Ohio referendum saw a significant majority in favor of enshrining abortion protection in the state’s constitution. With a margin of over 10 points, voters demonstrated their commitment to safeguarding reproductive rights. This outcome sends a powerful message to conservative lawmakers who have been pushing for restrictive abortion measures.
Amendment Details
The newly adopted amendment guarantees the right to make personal decisions regarding abortion, contraception, fertility treatments, and miscarriages. By incorporating these protections into the state constitution, Ohioans have strengthened the legal framework for reproductive rights, providing a safeguard against future attempts to curtail access to abortion.
Changing Dynamics in Public Opinion
Leading up to the referendum, polls indicated a tightening race as the use of the term “unborn child” instead of “fetus” entered the discourse. This shift in language aimed to appeal to emotions and shape public perception. Despite this tactic, the majority of Ohio voters remained steadfast in their support for abortion rights.
Additional Victories: Cannabis Legalization and Democratic Success
In addition to the historic win for reproductive rights, Ohio also made strides in other areas. The state has become the 24th in the United States to legalize recreational cannabis, marking a significant step forward in the ongoing debate surrounding drug policy. Furthermore, Democrats celebrated unexpected victories in other states on the same day. Kentucky, an ultra-conservative state, reelected its Democratic governor with ease, highlighting a potential shift in political dynamics. In Virginia, Democrats managed to maintain control of the Senate and were on track to regain control of the House, giving them the ability to block the passage of more restrictive abortion legislation.
Biden’s Approval Ratings Remain Low
Despite the series of victories for progressive causes, President Joe Biden continues to face challenges in maintaining popularity. Recent polls indicate that only 40% of Americans are satisfied with his presidency. These numbers underscore the need for the Biden administration to address concerns and deliver on key promises to regain trust and support.
A Changing Landscape for Abortion Rights
The Ohio referendum victory serves as a reminder that public opinion on abortion rights remains divided, even in traditionally conservative states. The series of wins in favor of reproductive rights demonstrates the resilience and commitment of those advocating for women’s autonomy. As the battle for abortion access continues, both sides will undoubtedly intensify their efforts, making every election and referendum crucial in shaping the future of reproductive rights.
The resounding victory for abortion rights in Ohio’s referendum highlights the evolving dynamics surrounding reproductive autonomy in the United States. Despite the state’s previous support for Donald Trump, Ohioans have made a clear statement in favor of protecting women’s right to choose. This outcome, coupled with successes in Kentucky and Virginia, signifies the ongoing transformation of public opinion and political landscapes. The fight for reproductive rights is far from over, and each victory brings hope for a future where women can make decisions about their bodies without interference.
Source : https://www.20minutes.fr/monde/etats-unis/4061291-20231108-etats-unis-nouvelle-victoire-droit-avortement-fois-ohio
