Arizona Upholds 160-Year-Old Abortion Ban in US State

The Arizona Supreme Court recently upheld a 160-year-old law that virtually bans abortion, sparking controversy and potential implications for the upcoming presidential election. This ruling means that doctors who perform abortions could face up to five years in prison. The decision has generated strong reactions from both President Joe Biden and his Republican challenger, Donald Trump, as Arizona holds significant sway in the election.

The court’s decision was influenced by the US Supreme Court’s 2022 ruling, which revoked the nationwide guarantee of abortion access. Despite the dated nature of the law, dating back to the US Civil War era, the Arizona Supreme Court deemed it enforceable. This historical context, coupled with the absence of women’s voting rights at the time, has sparked strong opposition, with Biden condemning the law as a “cruel ban” and accusing Republicans of stripping away women’s rights.

Following the ruling, a 14-day stay on enforcement was imposed. Arizona’s Attorney General, Kris Mayes, a Democrat, declared her refusal to enforce the ruling, labeling it “unconscionable.” She emphasized her commitment to preventing the prosecution of women and doctors under this law during her tenure.

Biden has echoed his disapproval, expressing concerns about the impact of the ruling on millions of Arizonans and advocating for federal abortion rights if reelected. Meanwhile, Trump has voiced support for states to determine their own abortion laws, aligning with his preference for the law to be decided at the state level. The ruling indicates a contentious and complex debate surrounding reproductive rights, with potential implications for the upcoming presidential election and federal legislation regarding abortion rights.