Tuesday marked the third anniversary of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, the Supreme Court decision that overturned Roe v. Wade. Since then we’ve seen the war on reproductive freedom escalate, especially in the states.
But Democratic leaders—many of them women—in states with strong abortion protections are fighting back, promoting legislation that shields their state’s abortion providers and mifepristone distributors from legal attacks, and dedicating money to women who travel from other states to seek care.
In state elections happening this year and next, we have the opportunity to preserve and expand the number of states where abortion is protected. Virginia—the only southern state where abortion is legal—is ground zero.
This year, the Virginia legislature passed a proposed constitutional amendment to protect abortion rights. It must pass again next session to appear as a ballot measure that voters could approve. Democrats have a one-seat majority in both chambers of the Virginia General Assembly, and if they don’t maintain or expand that majority, there will be no constitutional amendment.
A strong showing for Abigail Spanberger at the top of the ticket will be crucial for ushering in a stronger Democratic majority, and vice versa, which is why we’re encouraging all of our groups to host her ASAP.
Looking to next year, we will need to re-elect Democratic women governors in Arizona, Massachusetts, New York and Oregon, and protect Democratic women-held seats in Kansas, Maine, Michigan and New Mexico. Three of these states—Arizona, Kansas and Michigan—have Democratic governors as the only bulwark against anti-abortion rights Republicans in the legislature. And on top of that, there are 14 other state legislative chambers Democrats will be targeting to protect or gain majorities and break supermajorities.
These women will need Alliance support early and often if we want them to be competitive. As you’re looking ahead to your event calendar, please consider hosting governor candidates in these states—and taking the plunge down-ballot, if you are able. We’re here to help you map out your schedule in 2025 and 2026.