President Biden made the sign of the cross at a campaign rally focused on abortion rights in Tampa, Florida, as a new poll revealed a record number of Americans support legal abortion.
President Joe Biden's recent sign of the cross at a campaign rally for abortion access highlights the evolving views on abortion in the United States. A Quinnipiac University poll released Wednesday indicates a record high level of support for legal abortion, providing Democrats with a potential wedge issue in the upcoming November elections.
The poll found that 66% of Americans now support legal abortion in some or all cases, with 34% advocating for abortion to be legal in all circumstances and 32% in most cases. This represents the highest level of support for legal abortion ever recorded by the poll in its two-decade history. Conversely, support for abortion being illegal in all cases has dwindled to a mere 5%, and only 22% believe it should be illegal in most instances.
Democrats have seized upon abortion as a central plank in their campaign strategy, hoping to energize their base and attract swing voters who support abortion rights. They have warned that Republican control of Congress and a potential second term for former President Donald Trump could lead to a nationwide ban on abortion.
Trump, in an apparent attempt to quell such concerns, stated that abortion should be decided at the state level, with exceptions for rape, incest, and the mother's life. However, his stance has drawn criticism from pro-life groups such as Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, which views it as a concession to Democrats.
The Quinnipiac poll also revealed strong support for abortion when the mother's life is in danger (89%) and when the pregnancy results from rape or incest (85%). These findings underscore the nuanced views held by Americans on abortion, with many supporting it in certain circumstances.
Democrats are hoping to galvanize their supporters around the issue of abortion, which they believe will resonate with key demographics such as women, young voters, and minorities. However, Republicans are likely to counter by emphasizing economic issues and contrasting their policies with the Biden administration's agenda.
The poll suggests that abortion could become a significant factor in the upcoming midterm elections, with Democrats aiming to use it to mobilize their base and Republicans seeking to downplay its importance. As the election nears, candidates' stance on abortion will likely come under increasing scrutiny, and the issue is poised to play a pivotal role in the electoral landscape.
