What the abortion decision means for Washingtonians
This is a dark day for America.
Like you, I am outraged by the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.
This decision not only radically constrains reproductive freedom in frightening and dangerous ways, it strikes a blow to our basic constitutional rights of liberty, privacy, and equality – which is why the American people oppose it by a two-to-one margin.
One bit of good news: It is important for Washingtonians to know that the Supreme Court cannot restrict abortion rights in our state. Washington is one of 16 states with laws that protect abortion rights, and Gov. Jay Inslee has said he will seek to expand protections for those from out of state. After all, this terrible decision paves the way for the 26 states and counting to enact their own Texas-style "trigger" laws banning abortion — and Washingtonians are ready to fight for their rights, too.
As a member of Congress with a 100% voting record on choice, endorsed many times by Planned Parenthood, I will commit to you that I will fight hard to codify abortion rights nationwide in federal law.
Last fall, I joined a majority in the House to pass the Women's Health Protection Act, which would do exactly that. But it is currently being blocked by Republicans in the Senate. I continue to call on the Senate to set aside the anti-democratic filibuster and let a pro-choice majority protect abortion rights nationwide.
However, Republicans are not content to simply let states go their own way. Republican leaders have promised that they will seek a nationwide abortion ban if they take over Congress in November.
I also encourage you to attend local rallies in support of reproductive freedom and add your voice to the chorus of those demanding to be heard. The greater the turnout in every community throughout Washington and the country, and the louder our voices, the harder we are to ignore. Stay tuned — I will share details as we know more about opportunities to be seen and heard.
With today's backwards decision, reproductive freedom in America is under threat like never before, yet we can still shape a positive outcome. Remember, the American people are on our side and we stand on the right side of history.
