Roe v. Wade and the Political Issue

[JCMach1]

A few days back I posted a thread considering the possible politcal gains to be made by Dems vis a vis the Roe v. Wade decision.

I basically dropped a thought bomb into a room of people who were really on edge because of the Supreme Court retirements.

I just wanted to make a couple of points about this:

1. Fundamental Human rights have always (at least since '68) been an important part of the Democratic Party platform. There are many examples of this.

2. Rarely is there anything which is 'out' of the political frame these days... especially the way the Repugs play politics.

3. I don't think it is sexist to suggest that an impending loss of Roe v. Wade fundamentally changes the political argument/environment surrounding the issue. Nor, is it wrong to suggest the 'moral' high ground significantly changes to our favor.

While I greatly wish issues of fundamental and basic human rights were beyond the scope of politics, the reality is they are not. Our rights (in almost every form) are being eroded every day by the current <mis>administration.

Abortion rights are a political issue!

[saracat]

1. Amen . But be prepared for people to jump you!

Many think abortion is a bargaining chip! For me it is non negotiable but many no longer think that way.It is hoped they are a minority.

[musical_soul]

4. Agreed.

No trading in human rights to win an election.

[Iris]

2. I support abortion rights BECAUSE I think every political issue eventually

comes around to it.

[flaminbats]

3. When did Roe v. Wade become a defining campaign issue?

Only local candidates for county commission, mayor, or sheriff can avoid discussing this issue..and still be elected. It is nearly impossible to be elected to any state or federal office without taking sides. Name any Governor who claims not be pro-choice or pro-life. Name any successful candidate for Congress or President within the last decade who was neutral on this issue.

Even in 1976, both Carter and Ford treated Roe v. Wade as an untouchable issue. The first time I remember abortion becoming a national issue was when Reagan labeled liberals as amoral baby killers. Since then abortion has divided most voters into clearly defined camps. Unlike other issues, like healthcare or education, one cannot be elected without taking sides.

Most polls indicate the majority of Americans are pro-choice, while the fanatical Republican base is not. Why are those who are pro-choice willing to vote for candidates who are not, and why are voters who call themselves pro-life opposed to all pro-choice candidates?