CNN anchor Dana Bash initiated the discussion by asking Trump whether he’d block abortion medication. “The Supreme Court just approved the abortion pill, and I agree with their decision to have done that, and I will not block it,” Trump responded, referring to the recent Supreme Court decision dismissing a conservative Christian group’s claim that the abortion medication used by more than 5 million American women is unsafe and should be withdrawn from the market.
Trump then highlighted his influence on the Supreme Court, noting his appointment of three justices who played pivotal roles in overturning Roe vs. Wade. The 2022 Dobbs decision returned the power to regulate abortion to the states, leading to a patchwork of laws. Women in states like California still have access to abortion care, while states like Texas have stringent restrictions. With at least 10 states expected to have abortion-related measures on the ballot in November, this issue is likely to motivate Democrats to vote. Some states, including California, have even added abortion access protections to their constitutions.
“We brought it back to the states and the country is now getting back together,” Trump asserted, claiming that “everyone” supported repealing Roe.
Biden seized on the Roe ruling and Trump’s Supreme Court appointments, criticizing the shift in abortion rights. “It’s been a terrible thing, what you’ve done,” Biden retorted. “The idea that states are able to do this is a little like saying we’re going to turn civil rights back to the states, but each state have a different role.” Biden pledged that if he won, he would restore the rights under Roe.
The candidates also clashed over how late into a pregnancy abortions should be permitted. Trump repeated false claims that abortions would be allowed “even after birth.” Under Roe vs. Wade, abortions in the third trimester were permitted only in extremely rare circumstances, typically due to severe fetal issues or risks to the mother’s health, according to Politifact.
“We are not for late-term abortion period, period, under Roe v. Wade,” Biden clarified.
Trump expressed support for exceptions in cases of rape, incest, and to save the life of the mother. “Some people don’t, follow your heart,” he said about these exceptions.
The debate showcased the stark differences in how the two candidates view abortion rights, highlighting an issue that continues to divide the nation and energize voters on both sides.