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Abortion rights weren’t the story of the midterms. They still won.
Voters backed abortion access measures in Missouri, Nevada and Virginia, showing the issue remains popular across states even though it was less prominent in this election cycle’s debate. The results will strengthen or preserve protections for millions of women of reproductive age and help people travelling from states with tighter restrictions.
Since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022, voters in 14 states have supported abortion rights in ballot referendums. Idaho was the only major loss this time: a proposal to allow abortion until fetal viability, usually 22 to 24 weeks, and in medical emergencies failed. Ballot measures have also helped advocates challenge restrictions, as in Arizona and Colorado, but many states do not let citizens put amendments to a vote, and lawmakers can seek to repeal measures that pass.
In short
- Abortion access measures passed in Missouri, Nevada and Virginia.
- Idaho voters rejected a proposed abortion rights measure.
- Ballot victories can preserve protections, but remain vulnerable to limits and repeal efforts.
Explained simply
The US Supreme Court’s 2022 decision in Dobbs v Jackson Women’s Health Organization overturned Roe v Wade, the ruling that had protected a nationwide right to abortion. Since then, abortion laws have largely been set by individual states, creating different rules across the country.
Voters in some states can decide abortion policy through ballot measures, which let them approve or reject proposed changes to state law or constitutions. Supporters of abortion access have used these votes to protect or expand access, while opponents have campaigned against them.
The effects can reach beyond state borders because people may travel to obtain abortion care where it remains available. Ballot measures are not possible everywhere, and their protections can face further challenges from state lawmakers.