Last year, abortion rights changed the political landscape following the Dobbs decision, which overturned Roe v. Wade and energized many voters.
Michigan’s experience: In the 2022 midterm elections, Michigan’s referendum on state constitutional right to abortion and contraception saw high voter turnout, and Democrats fared well in key races.
* Governor Gretchen Whitmer was re-elected with a 10-point margin over her GOP opponent, and the reproductive rights referendum was approved with an even larger margin.
Impact on Republicans: Since the Dobbs decision, Republican candidates face more questions on their positions – whether they support a total ban, a six-week ban, or medication abortion restrictions.
* Republican party chairwoman Ronna McDaniel said candidates must address these issues head on, acknowledging the Democrats’ substantial investment in the topic.
Public opinion: Despite abortion becoming a significant issue in politics, an NPR/PBS NewsHour/Marist poll showed the Dobbs decision is still unpopular, with 57% of surveyed individuals opposing it.
* Democratic pollster Celinda Lake sees public support for abortion increasing after Dobbs and believes it reflects voters’ core values.
Future implications: While some predict abortion rights will keep the issue in the spotlight, Republican pollster Patrick Ruffini is uncertain whether it will remain a key driver in the 2024 election.
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