It's been two years since the Supreme Court shamefully overturned Roe v. Wade, stripping millions of Americans of their right to decide if, and when, to start a family. Many states have moved to enforce extremely restrictive laws on abortion—some as early as six weeks. In 14 states, abortion is banned in almost all circumstances.
As politicians nationwide continue to attack our bodily autonomy, voters need to know where our presidential candidates stand on reproductive rights. Vice President Harris deserves a chance to make her stance on abortion access crystal clear. Meanwhile, voters should hear exactly what President Trump means when he says that abortion should be “left up to the states” or “there has to be some form of punishment” for people seeking abortion care.
Just this month, new reports surfaced of women with dangerous pregnancy complications who were forced to give birth due to state abortion bans, leading to serious and permanent health consequences. We need to hear from our candidates: What would you say to these women, their families, and the doctors and physicians sounding the alarm about the dangerous impacts of state abortion bans? And what would you say to Americans concerned that these bans have gone too far?
As we head into the final stretch of this election season, abortion must be part of the public conversation so voters can support candidates who unequivocally fight for reproductive rights. Debate moderators must get our candidates on the record: What role does the federal government play in making sure that every American, regardless of where they live, can access a full range of essential reproductive health care, including abortion?
Add your name to our petition now and urge moderators at ABC News to ask about abortion in the next presidential debate.