Abortion was on Election Day ballot measures in three states. This is unusual and significant — it’s even more important that two of the three measures passed. It demonstrates a shift in culture that could affect political rhetoric, abortion policies, and overall, the lives of the unborn.
In Alabama, constituents voted on an amendment to the state constitution saying that the state will recognize and support the sanctity of unborn life and the rights of unborn children, and that the constitution does not protect the right to abortion or require the funding of abortion.
Almost 60 percent voted in favor of this amendment.
In an age where abortion has become somewhat commonplace, it’s refreshing and inspiring to see Alabama acknowledge the “rights of the unborn children” in direct contrast to Roe v. Wade. Likewise, since Planned Parenthood still continues to receive federal funding — and the GOP lacked the chutzpah to defund it while they had the House majority — it’s reassuring that Alabama took the step to remove language from its constitution that would require state funding of abortion. This is fiscally sound and, overall, will aid in the cause of promoting life.
Interestingly, while this isn’t an abortion measure, more than 70 percent voted in favor of “authorizing the display of the Ten Commandments on state property and property owned or administrated by a public school or public body.” Not altogether unusual for a state like Alabama, but still important for religious liberty advocates.
Oregon also had an abortion measure on its ballot. This was unusual for a blue state and was not likely to pass. It too prohibited “using public funds to be used directly or indirectly for abortions or health plans/insurance covering abortion.” Sadly, approximately 64 percent voted “no,” and this measure failed to pass. Again, this isn’t unusual for a state such as Oregon that is extremely liberal, but sad nonetheless, if not just from a fiscal perspective.
Finally, West Virginia constituents also had an abortion measure on their ballots. The measure amends the constitution to say that it does not protect the “right to abortion.” Almost 60 percent voted to do this. Like Alabama, West Virginia also passed an amendment to allow the Ten Commandments to be on display on state property (with more than 70 percent in favor).
While these are small strides in only a couple of states, they demonstrate that the U.S. is slowly shifting away from a culture that celebrates abortion and toward a culture of life — contrary to what the media or progressives, particularly feminists, might say.
As Tom McClusky, vice president of government affairs for the March For Life said, “West Virginia and Alabama both highlighted that when left up to the American people they are pro-life. Other states should follow their example and prepare for the inevitable when abortion is unthinkable.”
Nicole Russell (@russell_nm) is a contributor to the Washington Examiner’s Beltway Confidential blog. She is a journalist who previously worked in Republican politics in Minnesota.
