The 2018 US midterm elections had a lot of wins and losses, but one likely victory in the making is for pro-life advocates. Despite several states passing measures to expand access to abortion, advocating for life amid the undecided policies is still strong.
The state of Georgia recently passed a pro-life amendment, meaning the right to life is protected in the state’s constitution. Claiming this victory was Marjorie Dannenfelser, President of the Susan B. Anthony List and leader of the Pro-Life movement. In celebrating this victory, Dannenfelser is expecting a few more significant victories in the near future.
Despite the passage of ballot initiatives in some states to increase funding for abortions, expand abortion access, and even guarantee abortion rights in state constitutions, the pro-life fight continues. Dannenfelser remains hopeful in the face of opposition. She has her sights set on certain obstacles that need to be addressed in order to advance pro-life initiatives.
One significant obstacle Dannenfelser is focusing on is the Hyde Amendment, which restricts the use of federal funds for abortion services. Currently, the Hyde Amendment is tucked away in the federal budget and every year, there is a fight to keep it there. Without this amendment, the government would have to fund abortions, which Dannenfelser says can’t happen if the pro-life movement hopes to succeed.
In addition, Dannenfelser also feels that the pro-life movement must focus on preventing abortions. She is advocating for parental notification laws, which require as parents of minors seeking an abortion to be notified and to have the chance to provide support. This would give parents the opportunity to be involved in the decision-making process.
Finally, Dannenfelser strongly believes that pro-life advocates must also focus on limiting late-term abortions. She believes that the pro-life movement must be willing to compromise on this issue, even if it means agreeing to a small number of late-term abortions for reasons such as the health of the mother.
Despite the opposition, Dannenfelser remains confident that the pro-life movement will succeed in achieving its ultimate goals, which include protecting the right to life for the unborn. With this in mind, Dannenfelser is confident that the movement will make significant leaps ahead in the near future.
