The anti-abortion movement is experiencing a shift in sentiment as frustration grows over the rising number of abortions occurring now compared to when Roe v. Wade was overturned. Activist Seth Gruber, who leads ‘The White Rose Resistance,’ is pushing a petition to support criminal charges against women who get abortions.
In efforts to outlaw abortion nationwide, the movement has traditionally focused on prosecuting doctors and others who provide the procedure, sparing women from punishment. However, some conservative leaders now argue that arresting women may be necessary to deter them from ending their pregnancies.
This change in approach is largely fueled by the increased availability of abortion pills, even in states where the procedure is banned. On the fourth anniversary of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe, a group of over 60 conservative influencers, anti-abortion leaders, and pastors signed a petition demanding the removal of ‘legal immunities’ that protect women from prosecution.
Adding to this, the Texas Republican Party delegates voted in favor of repealing legal protections for women who get abortions, a decision met with strong support during their state convention.
The largest anti-abortion group in Texas is also considering a strategy to gauge political reactions. Their plan targets women with medical licenses by proposing to revoke these licenses if they are found taking abortion pills.