Kamala Harris backs filibuster elimination to restore Roe v. Wade rights

Vice President Kamala Harris recently voiced her support for eliminating the filibuster in order to restore abortion protections previously guaranteed under Roe v. Wade. She made these comments during an interview with Wisconsin Public Radio, emphasizing that if she becomes president and Democrats regain control of Congress, she believes this change is necessary.

“I think we should eliminate the filibuster for Roe,” Harris stated. She explained that achieving a simple majority—51 votes—would enable lawmakers to reinstate protections for reproductive freedom. Harris’s comments reflect a significant shift in the Democratic party’s approach to abortion rights, especially in light of recent Supreme Court decisions.

The road ahead for Democrats appears challenging, particularly with the 2024 elections on the horizon. The party faces the daunting task of reclaiming control of the House of Representatives, maintaining their Senate majority, and winning the presidency. The upcoming Senate election is particularly critical, with several highly contested races expected to play a pivotal role.

In her interview, Harris expressed optimism about the Democrats’ ability to hold the Senate and potentially reclaim the House. This confidence indicates a strategic focus on key issues, including abortion rights, which have emerged as central themes in her campaign against former President Donald Trump.

Harris’s commitment to abortion rights comes in the wake of tragic reports highlighting the dire consequences of restricting access to abortion. Last week, she pointed to the case of Amber Thurman, a 28-year-old pregnant woman who died in Georgia after doctors struggled to navigate the state’s new abortion restrictions. This incident underscores the urgent need for restoring abortion rights, particularly after the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade in 2022, which removed the constitutional right to an abortion.

Following her visit to Georgia, Harris traveled to Wisconsin, another critical battleground state crucial to the upcoming election. During her visit, she continued to advocate for abortion rights, engaging with voters and reinforcing the message that reproductive freedoms are essential to women’s health and autonomy.

As the campaign progresses, the emphasis on abortion and reproductive rights will likely remain at the forefront of Harris’s strategy, especially as polls indicate that these issues resonate strongly with many voters. The Democratic party recognizes that protecting these rights could be a vital aspect of their platform in the bid for electoral success.

In summary, Vice President Kamala Harris is taking a strong stance on abortion rights and is advocating for the elimination of the filibuster as a means to secure these protections for future generations. With the pressures of imminent elections and significant political battles ahead, her focus on reproductive freedom reflects a key pillar of the Democratic campaign strategy as they work to regain ground in Congress.

Source: USA TODAY