Trump supports Florida’s abortion ban, despite criticism from conservatives.

Former President Donald Trump recently voiced his intention to vote in favor of upholding Florida’s contentious six-week abortion ban, despite previously criticizing the law. In an interview with Fox News, Trump expressed his belief that the six-week timeframe was insufficient, stating, “You need more time than six weeks.” He highlighted his opposition to the law since the early primaries and criticized the Democrats for advocating what he deemed as an extreme stance on abortion, particularly referencing the allowance of abortions in the ninth month and post-birth procedures in certain states like Minnesota.

Florida’s abortion ban, which permits abortions only up to six weeks into pregnancy with some exceptions, was put into effect following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. However, a proposed constitutional amendment in Florida seeks to counteract this ban, a move that Trump, a Florida resident, intends to support through his vote.

While Democrats generally endorse reinstituting the abortion regulations established under Roe v. Wade, focusing on restrictions post fetal viability, the majority of abortions in the U.S. occur much earlier. According to a 2021 survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 93% of abortions occur within the first trimester, prior to the 13th week of pregnancy, with less than 1% performed after 21 weeks.

Trump’s statements on the six-week abortion ban elicited mixed reactions, particularly from conservative and anti-abortion groups. Tony Perkins, the president of the Family Research Council, expressed concerns about the aftermath of Trump’s remarks, while conservative pundit Erick Erickson suggested that Trump’s stance could alienate certain segments of his supporters.

Marjorie Dannenfelser, the president of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, initially criticized Trump’s potential support for the amendment, noting that it contradicted his previous stance on abortion. However, she later appreciated his decision to oppose the six-week ban, indicating a shift in her response.

It remains to be seen how Trump’s stance on the six-week abortion ban will impact his standing among voters and within the political landscape. His evolving position on this contentious issue reflects the ongoing debate surrounding reproductive rights and the varying perspectives within the realm of abortion laws.