Photo courtesy of Survey Center on American Life.
The post-election question of women’s reproductive rights weighs on SAU students as President Elect, Donald J. Trump, will step into this familiar role in the coming months.
Advocates who are pro-life believe the election results will not significantly affect current women’s reproductive rights – specifically abortion laws. SAU Students, Anna May and Bella Robinson, reiterated these beliefs.
Student Body President, Anna May, shared her perspective on how the election will affect abortion in the United States. “I do not think that this presidential election will have any significant impact on current abortion regulations because Trump believes that each state should make their own laws regarding abortion, which is the current policy.”
Speech Pathologist student, Bella Robinson, echoed this sentiment: “In Trump’s approach to abortion, he chose not to impose a federal ban, leaving the decision to individual states. Personally, I am opposed to abortion and firmly believe that life begins at conception.”
According to Guttmacher Institute, as of October 30, 2024, the abortion policies are the following for Iowa and Illinois:
In Iowa, abortion is banned after the sixth week of pregnancy. State Medicaid coverage is also banned except in some limited circumstances. Clinics are required to notify parents or guardians for a minor’s abortion; additionally, physicians are the only providers qualified to provide abortions – other healthcare providers are not authorized.
In Illinois, abortion is banned at fetal viability, generally this is between 24–26 weeks of pregnancy. State Medicaid funds cover abortion costs – private health insurance plans are required to do the same. For minors, parental notice is not required; additionally, only qualified health care professionals, not solely physicians, can provide abortions.
But, advocates who are pro-choice say they believe the election results will negatively affect current women’s reproductive rights. They believe the implications of this election’s upcoming policy decisions could potentially reshape healthcare. SAU students, Emma Stiener and Lilly Lowenberg, voice concerns about potential restrictions they deem essential.
SAU business student, Lilly Lowenberg, says she believes the top priority for the incoming administration or for those advocating on certain issues like abortion. “I worry for myself and other women. In my opinion, women rights should not be in the hands of a man. I am hopeful that the economy will strive and do better.”
Elementary Education student, Emma Stiener, says, “I think this election will lead to incredibly strict regulations on abortion. We will see women lose the ability to make a choice, and doctors run into issues of losing their jobs if they provide this care in any form. Restrictions on abortion will only cause women to seek out this care in a way that is unsafe and a greater threat to their health.”
When asked about what the incoming administration’s top priority should be regarding abortion, both Anna May and Emma Stiener emphasized the divide in beliefs.
Anna stated, “I believe the top priority for policymakers when it comes to abortion is negating many misconceptions surrounding abortion. For example, only 0.5% of abortions are due to rape, yet it is a very common argument for pro-choice voters. Another mantra is ‘My body, my choice’ however, it is not your body, but another growing inside of you.”
On the other hand, Emma stated that both parties should find a common ground when it comes to administrating abortion rights. “I think Trump’s administration and those advocating against abortion need to focus on areas in which we can find common ground. I would assume most could agree that a late term abortion in the third trimester is unethical, for instance. Additionally, the individual circumstance leading to the need for abortion should be considered, especially if the life of the mother is at risk.”
As discussions continue at SAU, all students noted that thoughtful, respectful dialogue with regards to policy was imperative to the continuation of this topic.
Addison Hendrick is a staff writer for The Buzz.
