A proposed ballot measure in Florida aimed at securing abortion rights has been defeated, delivering a notable political win for Governor Ron DeSantis and his Republican allies.
The measure, known as Amendment 4, garnered 57 percent of the votes but fell short of the 60 percent needed for approval.
It sought to allow abortions before viability, typically around 24 weeks, in a state where most abortions are currently banned after six weeks.
This defeat is especially significant as it ends a successful streak for abortion rights advocates, who had won all previous ballot initiatives on the issue since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022.
Prior to this, voters in seven states, including traditionally conservative ones like Kansas, had supported abortion rights measures.
Governor DeSantis, who led a well-funded campaign against Amendment 4, invested considerable political capital and state resources to ensure its failure.
This follows the enactment of stricter abortion laws in Florida, including a 15-week ban in 2022 and a six-week ban in 2023.
Florida, which once allowed abortions up to 24 weeks, has become less accessible for women seeking reproductive services.
The campaign to support Amendment 4 raised over $100 million, recognizing the challenge posed by Florida’s high voting threshold.
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Organizers aimed to attract bipartisan support, hoping that some Republican-leaning voters would back the measure despite their anti-abortion beliefs.
Former President Donald Trump, a Florida resident, initially hinted at supporting the amendment but ultimately opposed it.
The outcome of this measure reflects the complex political landscape surrounding reproductive rights in Florida and the challenges advocates face in the state.
