In the US state of Kansas, voters voted to preserve abortion rights. According to US media, voters in a nationwide referendum on Tuesday in the traditionally conservative state rejected the idea of removing the right to abortion from the state constitution by a clear majority. Otherwise, abortions in Kansas could have been severely restricted or banned altogether.
The Midwestern state referendum was the first vote on the issue since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the country’s fundamental right to abortion on June 24.
In response, the Republican-dominated Kansas state legislature introduced an amendment called “Value Them Both.” The goal was to abolish the right to abortion enshrined in the state constitution — with the aim of leaving regulation back to the legislature.
Abortion rights advocates saw the campaign as an attempt to pave the way for a total ban. A Conservative MP has already introduced a bill banning abortion, without exception for rape, incest or endangering the mother’s life. Currently, the state guarantees access to abortion until the 22nd week.
Vote as test case for other states
The vote is also seen as a test case for abortion rights in the US as a whole. Numerous Republican-dominated states are currently paving the way for strict abortion bans following the Supreme Court decision in Washington.
In other states, such as California and Kentucky, citizens will vote on the issue in November, which coincides with the midterm congressional elections. Republicans and Democrats alike hope to mobilize their supporters on the issue.
Supreme Court overturned ruling
On June 24, the Supreme Court issued the landmark 1973 ruling Roe v. Wade, which established a nationwide fundamental right to abortion. The decision caused a political earthquake and is considered a historic turning point. Because there is no federal abortion law, States can now largely or completely ban abortion.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
