Since the controversial decision to reverse Roe v. Wade took place two years ago, Democrats have recognized the political significance of abortion rights. As they gear up for the 2024 elections, it is evident that this issue will play a central role in the party’s strategy.
Is a campaign message about abortion compelling in blue states like California, where protections have only increased since the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision?
In 2022, Democrats in this region made efforts to leverage the issue by successfully passing an initiative to incorporate the right to an abortion into the state’s constitution. However, their efforts fell short in crucial congressional races, ultimately leading to the GOP gaining control of the House.
The Democrats’ chances of regaining control of the House this year are heavily reliant on their ability to secure victories in several key California districts.
In a recent interview with POLITICO, Jodi Hicks, President of Planned Parenthood California, shared her insights on the lessons derived from the abortion battle and the significance of the recent flurry of abortion-related developments. From former President Donald Trump seemingly opposing a national ban to the Arizona Supreme Court upholding a longstanding state law that imposes a near total ban, Hicks sheds light on what these events signify for the movement advocating for abortion rights.
This conversation has been edited for length and clarity.
How would you have described the Democrats’ strategy on abortion in California for the fall before Trump made his statement on Sunday?
The key distinction lies in the approach of Congress, the Senate, and the President towards safeguarding abortion rights across the country. It boils down to a choice between policymakers who prioritize nationwide access to abortion and those who seek to enact a federal ban. These are the two options that voters currently face, regardless of whether they reside in a state like California.
We have enacted numerous laws to expand access for moments like this, anticipating an increase in visitors from out of state. However, it is important to acknowledge that our actions are still subject to the decisions made by our national policymakers.
Now, Trump has made a statement indicating that the decision regarding abortion will be determined by individual states. He does not explicitly support a 15-week ban. Does this contradict the notion of a federal abortion ban being a possibility during Trump’s presidency?
No way. Let’s be clear here, Trump has a track record of saying anything to win an election. He has publicly expressed support for a ban in the past, and even went as far as suggesting criminalizing women seeking abortion. So, it’s important to consider his actions rather than just taking his words at face value. We can’t forget that this former president has a reputation for not always being honest. Therefore, I find it hard to believe what he says.
The Arizona attorney general has made it clear that she will not enforce this law, so it remains to be seen what the practical implications of this decision will be. However, it is worth noting that right next door to California, there are already headlines about this ban being back in effect. How do you think this will impact the issue in California campaigns?
It is a sobering reminder when we witness our neighbors grappling with such challenges, and it is evident that California will also feel the impact. We have previously experienced this when services were momentarily halted following the overturning of Dobbs and Roe, resulting in a surge of vehicles with Arizona license plates filling our parking lots. Thus, we are well aware that we will be affected.
The current attorney general has made it clear that she will not pursue prosecutions. However, it is important to remember that our elected officials hold the power in making policies. The ongoing election serves as a reminder that abortion is a crucial issue that is at stake each time we cast our votes. Our reproductive rights and freedoms are constantly on the line, dependent on the actions of policymakers. It is crucial that we have safeguards in place instead of having individuals who either remain passive or are prepared to enforce a nationwide ban on abortion.
In retrospect, Proposition 1, which aimed to establish abortion rights in the state constitution in 2022, garnered significant support with two-thirds of voters backing it. Interestingly, during the same election, Democrats faced challenges in certain crucial House races. This suggests that there was a disconnect between the abortion issue and the outcomes of these down-ballot races. What valuable insights can we glean from the experience of Proposition 1?
It is absolutely true that when individuals are confronted with the decision of supporting abortion rights, reproductive rights, and birth control, and enshrining them as protected rights in the Constitution, they overwhelmingly vote in favor of such measures.
For nearly 50 years, Roe v. Wade has provided us with protection. It may not come naturally to us, but we must now exercise our voting power to ensure that policymakers who support reproductive rights are elected. This upcoming election, as well as every future election, will be an opportunity for us to have conversations about this crucial issue. We must continue these discussions until we have a strong majority of individuals dedicated to safeguarding reproductive rights and respecting the freedoms of people – a sentiment that aligns with the desires of the majority of Americans.
Q: Does the success of Prop 1 make your job harder this year? How do you impart urgency to the voters that abortion rights are at stake when they’ve been hearing now for the last two years that California has enshrined the right to abortion?
A: With the success of Prop 1, there is no denying that our job has become more challenging this year. However, we recognize the importance of imparting a sense of urgency to the voters regarding the preservation of abortion rights. Despite the notion that California has solidified the right to abortion over the past two years, it is crucial to convey to the voters that these rights are still at stake. We must emphasize the need to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting and preserving these fundamental reproductive rights.
In California, our actions were truly remarkable, and if given the chance, we would replicate them without hesitation. It is regrettable that every state must now confront the imperative of safeguarding their own territory. However, it is crucial to address the situation at the national level, as we face a formidable threat that transcends state boundaries.
Voters will constantly be reminded of these issues every step of the way. They were reminded in Florida, and now, with the situation in Arizona, the reminder is even stronger. The Supreme Court will soon make a decision on medication abortion, which will have a direct impact on the type of care Californians can receive. This ongoing reliance on Supreme Court decisions is a constant reminder that this is a national issue. While it is important to protect the state of California, it is equally crucial to safeguard ourselves from national extremists. We need champions who will stand up for our rights and protect us from any threats.
The battleground House races in California are scattered throughout the state. Does abortion prove to be a winning issue in all of these races? Or does it resonate more strongly in certain areas, such as Orange County or the Central Valley, both of which are hosting critical contests this year?
In every district, there are various factors that influence the messages being conveyed. However, it is evident that the majority of individuals in California, and even across the country, strongly desire the protection of their reproductive rights. This was clearly demonstrated by the overwhelming support for Prop 1 throughout the state. The stark contrast between those who prioritize reproductive rights and those who support a federal ban is unmistakable. This is the message we will be discussing, and I believe voters across California will positively respond to it.