Abortion Ballot Measures Face Opposition Using Parental Rights and Anti-Trans Rhetoric

In nine states, opponents link abortion amendments to controversial issues despite legal experts dismissing such connections.

Opponents in nine states are using parental rights and anti-transgender messages to challenge abortion rights ballot measures.
The ballot measures do not mention gender-affirming surgeries, and legal experts argue changes would require court action.
This strategy echoes past efforts in Michigan and Ohio, where similar rhetoric failed to prevent the enshrinement of abortion rights.
Legal experts emphasize that current parental consent laws for abortions and gender-affirming care remain unchanged by these amendments.
Anti-abortion groups are targeting states with conservative leanings, hoping for a different outcome compared to previous losses.