Arizona Republicans Block Attempt to Repeal 1864 Abortion Ban Amid Outrage and Legal Battles

On Wednesday, tensions ran high in the Arizona Legislature as discussions on the repeal of the state's revived 1864 abortion law were swiftly shut down by Republican lawmakers, prompting shouts of "Shame! Shame!" from outraged Democrats.

Supreme Court Clears the Way for Enforcement

The state Supreme Court's decision to allow the enforcement of the pre-statehood law has stirred significant controversy, with Arizona abortion providers vowing to continue offering services until they are compelled to cease, possibly within weeks.

As pressure mounts from both Democrats and some Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, there are escalating calls for state legislators to intervene in the matter. However, attempts by House Democrats and at least one Republican to open discussions on repealing the 1864 abortion ban, which lacks exceptions for rape or incest, were swiftly halted by GOP leaders who hold the majority.

Outcry Over Handling of Debate

Republican State Rep. Teresa Martinez accused Democrats of engaging in extremist behavior and criticized the rushed nature of the debate, while Democratic legislators highlighted the intense national interest in the state's abortion ban.

Democratic Governor Katie Hobbs condemned the inaction on the proposed repeal as unconscionable, asserting that the protection of the Civil War-era abortion ban puts lives at risk. Additionally, data from the 2022 midterm elections revealed that a majority of Arizona voters would support guaranteeing legal abortion nationwide.