Article Summary –
Kamala Harris has pledged to restore abortion rights nationwide if elected president, emphasizing her commitment to reproductive freedom, and her stance is resonating positively in North Carolina, where Republican lawmakers have recently implemented restrictive abortion laws. Despite the passage of SB 20, which limits abortions to 12 weeks with specific exceptions, Harris’ campaign focus on codifying Roe v. Wade into law is energizing young voters and gaining support in rural communities, where many oppose strict abortion bans. Harris’ position on reproductive rights, coupled with her broader message of freedom, appears to be a significant asset in her campaign, potentially increasing voter turnout and support among diverse demographics.
Harris Vows to Restore Abortion Rights Nationwide
On June 24, 2023, the one-year anniversary of the US Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, Vice President Kamala Harris visited North Carolina, where Republicans had recently passed an abortion ban despite broad support for abortion access. Harris spoke about the devastating consequences of such laws.
“Over the past 365 days, the women of our nation have suffered under these laws. Laws that have created chaos, confusion, and fear,” Harris said in Charlotte.
A year later, Harris is the Democratic Party’s presumptive nominee for president, after President Joe Biden’s endorsement. Since launching her campaign, she has focused on reproductive freedom, promising to restore abortion rights nationwide.
Her stance has energized voters, especially in North Carolina. “People are fired up about it,” said Garrett Readling, Communications Director with the Young Democrats of North Carolina (YDNC). Charles DeLoach, vice chair of the Mecklenburg County Young Democrats, believes Harris’ stance on reproductive rights will be a significant asset in her campaign.
Impact on Young and Rural Voters
North Carolina, like many Southern states, has felt the impact of the Court’s ruling overturning Roe. In May 2023, the Republican supermajority passed SB 20, restricting abortion access to 12 weeks with limited exceptions. Stricter laws could follow if Republicans maintain control.
Harris reiterated her support for reproductive rights, saying, “We who believe in reproductive freedom will fight for a woman’s right to choose.” Her commitment to codifying Roe into law would nullify state restrictions like SB 20.
Shannon King from Down Home North Carolina has found that most rural voters oppose strict abortion bans. “Over half of the people we speak with are not for an abortion ban,” she said. Readling believes Harris’ focus on abortion will boost youth turnout, stating, “Young people are fired up about not having fewer rights than their parents and grandparents.”
Harris’ message of freedom, as proclaimed in her Charlotte speech, continues to resonate: “We know this fight will not truly be won until we secure this right for every American.”
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