Abortion access is expected to be a crucial issue in the upcoming 2024 presidential election. Vice President Harris, who has been leading the Biden administration's efforts to counter anti-abortion measures, is likely to prioritize reproductive rights in her own campaign. As the face of the Democratic party's stance on reproductive rights in 2022, Harris has gained visibility and established herself as a leader in this domain.
Harris has highlighted the importance of abortion access as a healthcare crisis, emphasizing that millions of women in America are being denied the same reproductive care that previous generations had enjoyed. She firmly believes that the right to privacy, which includes the right to access abortion, should be protected.
In addition to her public support for abortion access, Harris has engaged in discussions with state legislators and healthcare professionals to address the issue. Her backing for abortion rights aligns with the majority opinion in the country, as 63 percent of Americans support legal abortion in most or all situations.
During her high school years, Harris discovered that her close friend was a victim of sexual abuse. This traumatic experience motivated her to pursue a career in law, starting as a deputy district attorney in California. Over the years, she served as District Attorney of San Francisco, Attorney General of California, and a California Senator. Drawing on her friend's ordeal, Harris has consistently opposed bans on abortion, particularly in cases of rape or incest.
As a Senator, Harris co-sponsored legislation that aimed to eliminate restrictions on doctors providing abortions, making the procedure more accessible. During her presidential campaign in 2019, Harris proposed a plan that would require states to seek federal approval for measures that could severely restrict abortion rights.
Following the impactful Dobbs decision in 2022, which stirred the political landscape, Harris swiftly voiced her support for abortion rights. She denounced attempts to control women's bodies and limit their freedom to determine their own futures. Harris actively participated in the Fight for Reproductive Freedoms tour, highlighting the detrimental impact of abortion restrictions on women's health. In a historic move, she became the first President or Vice President to visit an abortion clinic in March.
As Vice President, Harris has engaged in discussions with leaders from 38 states, addressing the issue of abortion. In a significant announcement, she emphasized the administration's commitment to ensuring access to mifepristone, a medication used in abortions. Harris has firmly established herself as a champion for reproductive rights.
Following the Dobbs ruling, abortion has become a pivotal political issue, contributing to several victories for the Democratic party. Besides supporting general reproductive rights, Harris has expressed her desire to codify abortion rights into law. If elected president, Harris could potentially work towards eliminating the Hyde Amendment, a federal law that restricts funding for abortions and impedes access for millions of women.
Vice President Harris' strong stance on abortion rights and her dedication to protecting women's reproductive freedom make it a defining issue in the 2024 presidential election. Her history and actions demonstrate her commitment to ensuring access to safe and legal abortions for all women.
