#BansOffOurBodies: Democratic Women in Power React to the Overturn of Roe vs Wade
In a move almost unheard of in developed countries, the Supreme Court of the United States decided to move backwards on reproductive rights by overturning Roe v. Wade, legislation that, for 50 years, protected abortion rights. The ruling now gives state governments broad control over reproductive rights, and ensures years of continued battles over the issues.
As of noon, on June 24, neither President Joe Biden nor Vice President Kamala Harris have released a statement on the decision, but many female politicians in their party were quick to react. Several members of the congress, including Rep. Judy Chu of California, grabbed signs and immediately marched to the Supreme Court. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, an impassioned champion for both women’s right and taking action, called on congress to codify Roe in federal law and for the president to issue an executive order. Others went even further. Rep. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota called on Democrats to expand the Supreme Court, an option allowed by the Constitution but not exercised in generations.
On the state level, Democratic governors vowed to ensure that abortion rights are protected and expanded in their states. Here, a rundown of female politicians reactions to the ruling.
Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Massachusetts
“These extremists will not have the final word. Democrats have tools to fight back, from legislation in Congress to executive orders from the President to initiatives at the state and local level – we just need to use them. We are angry—angry and determined. We will not go back. Not now. Not ever.”
