West Virginia’s Governor Race Highlights Abortion Debate Amid Post-Roe Changes
As West Virginia gears up for the impending governor’s race, the contentious issue of abortion has come to the forefront. Voters’ opportunities to voice their opinions on abortion have been limited since the overturning of Roe v. Wade. State Attorney General Patrick Morrisey, the Republican nominee, staunchly defends the state’s comprehensive abortion ban, while Democratic candidate and Huntington Mayor Steve Williams has attempted to advocate for reproductive rights.
Williams failed in a bid to place an abortion referendum on the November ballot but remains hopeful about shifting public sentiment, suggesting that "freedom will be on the ballot one way or another." He has engaged with women across the political spectrum, emphasizing the divide over reproductive rights in a traditionally Republican state that has consistently backed Trump.
Unlike states that have successfully passed abortion access measures via public votes, West Virginia lacks a citizen-led ballot initiative process, making legislative intervention the only route. While Morrisey claims the state is "pro-life," critics argue that the 2018 constitutional amendment limiting abortion rights was poorly reflective of public sentiment, as it occurred during a low-turnout election.
Advocates like Margaret Chapman Pomponio from WV FREE argue that West Virginians underappreciate the restrictive nature of the current law. The law requires rape and incest victims to report their assault to law enforcement before receiving an abortion, a stipulation that many view as overly burdensome.
With campaign spending heavily favoring Morrisey, totaling over $36 million, Williams intends to press lawmakers on abortion legislation. "If they continue to refuse, I’d restore access through executive order," he stated, highlighting the potential for a significant shift in public engagement ahead of the election.
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