State of Louisiana Archives: on Abortion


Anthony Kennedy: Disallow obstacles to medical services for abortion

The Supreme Court blocked Louisiana from enforcing a law that women's groups said would leave only a single doctor legally allowed to perform abortions in the state. It was the Supreme Court's first significant action on abortion since Brett Kavanaugh replaced Anthony Kennedy, who generally voted with the court's liberals to uphold abortion rights.

Oppoents argued that it was identical to a Texas law the Supreme Court struck down in 2016. In that ruling, joined by Justice Kennedy, the court said Texas imposed an obstacle on women seeking access to abortion services without providing them any medical benefits. In the case called Whole Women's Health, the Supreme Court said requiring abortion doctors to have hospital admitting privileges was medically unnecessary, given that only a tiny fraction of abortions in the first trimester require hospitalization. It was the most important abortion ruling in 25 years and blocked similar restrictions in AL, MS, OK, TN, and WI.

Source: NBC News on 2019 SCOTUS case: "June Medical vs. Louisiana" Feb 7, 2019

Antoine Pierce: Protect women's rights & autonomy

Source: 2020 Louisiana Senate campaign website AntoinePierce.com Feb 4, 2020

Bill Cassidy: Religion plays vital role; this includes protecting unborn

Faith and religion have played a vital role in our nation's history. Our Founders' vision was for America to be a place where individuals could practice their religion and express their beliefs freely and openly. It is important that this right is recognized and respected. This includes protecting the unborn. I am proud to have an "A" from the National Right to Life Committee.
Source: 2020 Louisiana Senate campaign website cassidy.senate.gov Dec 10, 2018

Bobby Jindal: Abortion doctors must have hospital admitting privileges

HB388: Provides for requirements of physicians who perform abortions

Opposition by Jurist.org: The law would likely shut down three of the state's five abortion clinics. Proponents of the bill argue that admitting privileges requirements further the objective of promoting women's health. Critics contend that bills like HB 388 are thinly-veiled attempts to outlaw abortions entirely. A Planned Parenthood press release [says HB 388] was passed under the guise of protecting patient safety but it does the opposite. Data from the CDC shows that abortion has over a 99 percent safety record. For patients' safety, providers already have plans in place in case of an emergency.

Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 34-3-2, Vote #988 on May/14/14; Passed House 88-5-11, Vote #1108 on May/21/14; Signed by Governor Bobby Jindal on Jun/12/14 [Note: this was the law overturned by the Supreme Court in June 2020.]

Source: Jurist.org on Louisiana legislative voting records HB388 Jun 12, 2014

Brett Kavanaugh: See if anti-abortion rules are burdensome before banning

The Supreme Court blocked Louisiana from enforcing a law that women's groups said would leave only a single doctor legally allowed to perform abortions in the state. By a 5-4 vote, the court said the restrictions must remain on hold while challengers appeal a lower court decision.

It was the Supreme Court's first significant action on abortion for Brett Kavanaugh. Kavanaugh voted with the conservatives--Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, and Neil Gorsuch. Kavanaugh filed a dissent, writing only for himself. He said he would have allowed the law to take effect in order to see whether it would impose a burden on women's access to abortion in the state.

Kavanaugh said that because Louisiana promised to put the law into effect gradually, he would have waited to see how many doctors were able to get hospital admitting privileges. So far, he said, the two sides in the case have offered only "competing predictions" about its effect.

Source: NBC News on 2019 SCOTUS case: "June Medical vs. Louisiana" Feb 7, 2019

Buddy Roemer: Tight limits on abortion are unconstitutionally restrictive

Some of Roemer's past positions might give evangelical voters pause. As governor, he vetoed three bills that imposed tight limits on abortion, calling them unconstitutionally restrictive. He also greatly expanded gambling in the state.

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Source: The Wall Street Journal, "Longshot from Louisiana" Mar 16, 2011

Clarence Thomas: Ok for states to require hospital nearby abortion service

The Supreme Court blocked Louisiana from enforcing a law that women's groups said would leave only a single doctor legally allowed to perform abortions in the state. By a 5-4 vote, the court said the restrictions must remain on hold while challengers appeal a lower court decision in favor of the law.

The vote was not a ruling on the legal merits of the restriction, but the decision to keep the law on hold signals that a majority of the justices have doubts about its constitutionality. Passed by the state legislature in 2014, the measure requires any doctor offering abortion services to have admitting privileges at a hospital within 30 miles. Plaintiffs argued that it was identical to a Texas law the Supreme Court struck down in 2016, in which the court said Texas imposed an obstacle on women seeking access to abortion services without providing them any medical benefits. Plaintiffs said Louisiana's law would leave only one doctor at a single clinic in New Orleans to perform the procedure.

Source: NBC News on 2019 SCOTUS case: "June Medical vs. Louisiana" Feb 7, 2019

Clay Higgins: 96 million children have been murdered in the womb

I am completely Pro-Life. I lost a daughter many years ago. She was 6 months and 10 days old. I think of her, and her little hand gripping my finger. I cannot imagine the mindset of any person who would support the murder of such an innocent child of God. I suppose that if the mother's life is TRULY at risk, then that mother would have to choose whether or not she was willing to risk death for the life of her child, and such a choice should be legal and left up to the mother.

96 million children have been murdered in the womb in our country since the 1970s. That's the entire population of TX, LA, AR, MS, AL, and FL.

I am certain that a nation mourns, generationally, when it allows such a thing. 96 million. Yet we wonder what has happened to our American society? What has happened to our family structure? What has happened to our moral fiber? Why are our children so brash and largely ignorant of our current state of demise? Why? Perhaps we need but look in the mirror, 96 million times.

Source: 2016 Louisiana House campaign website CaptainHiggins.com Dec 10, 2016

David Vitter: Promote a positive culture of life

David is proudly pro-life and has a 100% voting record with Louisiana Right to Life and National Right to Life. He'll promote and lead a positive culture of life in Louisiana.
Source: 2015 Louisiana Governor campaign website, DavidVitter.com Aug 11, 2015

David Vitter: Supported by anti-abortion group Louisiana Right to Life

Vitter highlighted his support from the pro-gun National Rifle Association and the anti-abortion group Louisiana Right to Life and his opposition to the Common Core education standards, which, Angelle pointed out, Vitter previously supported. Several times, Vitter held up a campaign booklet and told viewers they could get more details by going to his campaign website. "I listen, I've stood up and I've fought for conservative Louisiana values," Vitter said. "I've produced results."
Source: Baton Rouge Advocate on 2015 Louisiana Gubernatorial debate Oct 1, 2015

David Vitter: I'm endorsed by pro-life groups; my rivals not 100% pro-life

Vitter repeatedly references endorsements from several anti-abortion groups while campaigning. Though each major candidate for governor opposes abortion, the issue still raises disputes in the race. Vitter criticized both Dardenne and Edwards in a recent debate, saying Edwards' votes for President Barack Obama undercut his claim of being anti-abortion and saying Dardenne has voted `six times for abortion and against life.` Vitter's campaign has hit Dardenne on the subject several times.

In response, Dardenne said he didn't vote to support abortion rights, but was scored poorly by Louisiana Right to Life because of votes as a state senator on several bills involving cloning and stem cell research. He said concerns were raised that the bills, which sought to ban human cloning, were too sweeping and could harm medical research. `I think it's a little misleading, not on the part of the scorers, but on Vitter's part, to not characterize me as pro-life,` Dardenne said.

Source: Okla. News on 2015 Louisiana Gubernatorial debate Oct 8, 2015

David Vitter: No exceptions for rape or incest victims

The four major candidates all oppose abortion, but they do differ on the exceptions they're willing to consider in their opposition to the procedure. All four men say they don't object to an abortion when a mother's life is in jeopardy. Angelle and Vitter don't support exceptions for rape or incest victims; Dardenne does. Edwards said he'd consider such exceptions if they were the `legislative will.`

Another difference of opinion involves term-limited Gov. Bobby Jindal's decision to block Medicaid funding to Planned Parenthood, which doesn't provide abortions in Louisiana. All three Republicans say they support Jindal's decision. Edwards said there should be more investigation of claims that the organization was illegally profiting from fetal tissue sales, which Planned Parenthood denies. He also said Louisiana must make sure other health care locations are available to provide services before blocking Planned Parenthood from Medicaid.

Source: Okla. News on 2015 Louisiana Gubernatorial debate Oct 8, 2015

Eddie Rispone: Pro-life, pro-God, pro-family

My faith, family, and conservative values are everything to me, which is exactly why I'm running for governor. It's time Louisiana has a pro-life, pro-God, and pro-family governor to put our state back on track.
Source: Twitter posting on 2019 Louisiana Gubernatorial race Jul 15, 2019

Elena Kagan: Don't require admitting privileges for abortionists

The Supreme Court blocked Louisiana from enforcing a law that women's groups said would leave only a single doctor legally allowed to perform abortions in the state. By a 5-4 vote, the court said the restrictions must remain on hold while challengers appeal a lower court decision in favor of the law.

The vote signaled that a majority of the justices have doubts about the constitutionality of the LA law, which requires any doctor offering abortion services to have admitting privileges at a hospital within 30 miles. Plaintiffs argued that it was identical to a Texas law the Supreme Court struck down in 2016, in which the court said Texas imposed an obstacle on women seeking access to abortion services without providing them any medical benefits. It was the most important abortion ruling in 25 years and blocked similar restrictions in AL, MS, OK, TN, and WI.

Plaintiffs said Louisiana's law would leave only one doctor at a single clinic in New Orleans to perform the procedure

Source: NBC News on 2019 SCOTUS case: "June Medical vs. Louisiana" Feb 7, 2019

Garret Graves: Human life begins at conception

Q: Human life begins at conception and deserves legal protection at every stage until natural death?

GRAVES: Strongly Agree

Source: Faith2Action iVoterGuide on 2014 Louisiana House race Sep 30, 2014

Jay Dardenne: Sweeping ban on human cloning would harm medical research

All four major contenders in the Louisiana governor's race oppose abortion, a popular stance in a state considered one of the most anti-abortion in the nation.

The three major Republican candidates--Public Service Commissioner Scott Angelle, Lt. Gov. Jay Dardenne and US Sen. David Vitter--describe their opposition to abortion as they campaign. Vitter criticized Dardenne in a recent debate, saying Dardenne has voted `six times for abortion and against life.` Vitter's campaign has hit Dardenne on the subject several times.

In response, Dardenne said he didn't vote to support abortion rights, but was scored poorly by Louisiana Right to Life because of votes as a state senator on several bills involving cloning & stem cell research. He said concerns were raised that the bills, which sought to ban human cloning, were too sweeping and could harm medical research. `I think it's a little misleading, not on the part of the scorers, but on Vitter's part, to not characterize me as pro-life,` Dardenne said.

Source: Okla. News on 2015 Louisiana Gubernatorial debate Oct 8, 2015

Jay Dardenne: Exceptions for rape & incest victims are ok

The four major candidates differ on the exceptions they're willing to consider in their opposition to the abortion procedure. All four men say they don't object to an abortion when a mother's life is in jeopardy. Angelle and Vitter don't support exceptions for rape or incest victims; Dardenne does. Edwards said he'd consider such exceptions if they were the `legislative will.`

Another difference of opinion involves term-limited Gov. Bobby Jindal's decision to block Medicaid funding to Planned Parenthood, which doesn't provide abortions in Louisiana. All three Republicans say they support Jindal's decision. Edwards said there should be more investigation of claims that the organization was illegally profiting from fetal tissue sales, which Planned Parenthood denies. He also said Louisiana must make sure other health care locations are available to provide services before blocking Planned Parenthood from Medicaid.

Source: Okla. News on 2015 Louisiana Gubernatorial debate Oct 8, 2015

John Bel Edwards: Provide alternatives to Planned Parenthood before blocking

The four major candidates all oppose abortion, but they do differ on the exceptions they're willing to consider in their opposition to the procedure. All four men say they don't object to an abortion when a mother's life is in jeopardy. Angelle and Vitter don't support exceptions for rape or incest victims; Dardenne does. Edwards said he'd consider such exceptions if they were the `legislative will.`

Another difference of opinion involves term-limited Gov. Bobby Jindal's decision to block Medicaid funding to Planned Parenthood, which doesn't provide abortions in Louisiana. All three Republicans say they support Jindal's decision. Edwards said there should be more investigation of claims that the organization was illegally profiting from fetal tissue sales, which Planned Parenthood denies. He also said Louisiana must make sure other health care locations are available to provide services before blocking Planned Parenthood from Medicaid.

Source: Okla. News on 2015 Louisiana Gubernatorial debate Oct 8, 2015

John Bel Edwards: Signed one of country's most restrictive anti-abortion laws

Edwards signed into law one of the most restrictive anti-abortion laws in the country, earning praise from groups like the Susan B. Anthony List, which applauded him for "leading the way in the bipartisan effort to bring our nation's laws into line with basic human decency."

Edwards said, "The pro-life ethos has to mean more than just the abortion issue. It's got to go beyond that. The job isn't over when the baby's born if you've got poor people who need access to health care."

Source: America Magazine on 2019 Louisiana gubernatorial race Dec 14, 2018

John Bel Edwards: Member of Democrats for Life, anti-choice group

Where Missouri is a battleground for Democrats for Life, Louisiana is about as close as its members have to a stronghold. More than half of Louisiana residents, including nearly 40% of Democrats, say abortion should be illegal in all or most cases, according to a 2016 survey. The governor, John Bel Edwards, is one of the organization's most prominent members.

In this environment, Ms. [Katrina] Jackson, the Democratic state senator, has bloomed into a star. She draws a hard line at abortion. To her, it's unequivocal: Abortion is murder, and murder goes against God's will. Over two terms as a state representative--she joined the Senate in 2019--Ms. Jackson put her name to a slew of laws that have made headlines and drawn furious protests from abortion rights activists in Louisiana and nationwide.

Source: Christian Science Monitor on Louisiana voting records Feb 4, 2020

John Bel Edwards: Abortion doctors must have hospital admitting privileges

HB388: Provides for requirements of physicians who perform abortions

Opposition by Jurist.org: The law would likely shut down three of the state's five abortion clinics. Proponents of the bill argue that admitting privileges requirements further the objective of promoting women's health. Critics contend that bills like HB 388 are thinly-veiled attempts to outlaw abortions entirely. A Planned Parenthood press release [says HB 388] was passed under the guise of protecting patient safety but it does the opposite. Data from the CDC shows that abortion has over a 99 percent safety record. For patients' safety, providers already have plans in place in case of an emergency.

Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 34-3-2, Vote #988 on May/14/14; Passed House 88-5-11, Vote #1108 on May/21/14; State Rep. John Bel Edwards voted YES; Signed by Governor Bobby Jindal on Jun/12/14 [Note: this was the law overturned by the Supreme Court in June 2020.]

Source: Jurist.org on Louisiana legislative voting records HB388 May 21, 2014

John Bel Edwards: Favored fetal heartbeat bill banning early abortions

SB184: Provides that it is unlawful for any person to knowingly perform an abortion with the specific intent of causing or abetting the termination of the life of an unborn human being when a fetal heartbeat has been detected.

Analysis by ABC News (May 30, 2019): The bill itself is similar to some of the other so-called "heartbeat" bills that have been signed into law elsewhere in that it bans abortions after a fetal heartbeat can be detected, which is as early as six weeks into a pregnancy. Unlike some other bills and other existing abortion laws, the Louisiana bill does not include exceptions in cases of rape and incest.

Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 31-5-3 on May/6/19; Passed House 79-23-3 on May/29/19; Signed by Governor John Bel Edwards on May/30/19.

Source: ABC News on Louisiana legislative voting records SB184 May 30, 2019

John Roberts: Unconstitutional to require hospital nearby abortion service

The Supreme Court blocked Louisiana from enforcing a law that women's groups said would leave only a single doctor legally allowed to perform abortions in the state. Chief Justice John Roberts voted with the court's liberal members in a 5-4 vote.

The vote signals that a majority of the justices have doubts about the constitutionality of the Louisiana law, which requires any doctor offering abortion services to have admitting privileges at a hospital within 30 miles. Opponents argued that it was identical to a Texas law struck down in 2016, in a case called Whole Women's Health, where the Court rules that requiring abortion doctors to have hospital admitting privileges was medically unnecessary. It was the most important abortion ruling in 25 years and blocked similar restrictions in AL, MS, OK, TN, and WI. Roberts was among the dissenters when the court struck down the Texas law. But the court ruled that it was unconstitutional, and his vote now was consistent with that holding.

Source: NBC News on 2019 SCOTUS case: "June Medical vs. Louisiana" Feb 7, 2019

Karen Carter Peterson: Opposed fetal heartbeat bill banning early abortions

SB184: Provides that it is unlawful for any person to knowingly perform an abortion with the specific intent of causing or abetting the termination of the life of an unborn human being when a fetal heartbeat has been detected.

Analysis by ABC News (May 30, 2019): The bill itself is similar to some of the other so-called "heartbeat" bills that have been signed into law elsewhere in that it bans abortions after a fetal heartbeat can be detected, which is as early as six weeks into a pregnancy. Unlike some other bills and other existing abortion laws, the Louisiana bill does not include exceptions in cases of rape and incest.

Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 31-5-3 on May/6/19; State Sen. Karen Carter Peterson voted NO; Passed House 79-23-3 on May/29/19; Signed by Governor John Bel Edwards on May/30/19.

Source: ABC News on Louisiana legislative voting records SB184 May 6, 2019

Lance Harris: Abortion doctors must have hospital admitting privileges

HB388: Provides for requirements of physicians who perform abortions

Opposition by Jurist.org: The law would likely shut down three of the state's five abortion clinics. Proponents of the bill argue that admitting privileges requirements further the objective of promoting women's health. Critics contend that bills like HB 388 are thinly-veiled attempts to outlaw abortions entirely. A Planned Parenthood press release [says HB 388] was passed under the guise of protecting patient safety but it does the opposite. Data from the CDC shows that abortion has over a 99 percent safety record. For patients' safety, providers already have plans in place in case of an emergency.

Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 34-3-2, Vote #988 on May/14/14; Passed House 88-5-11, Vote #1108 on May/21/14; State Rep. Lance Harris co-sponsored bill and voted YES; Signed by Governor Bobby Jindal on Jun/12/14 [Note: this was the law overturned by the Supreme Court in June 2020.]

Source: Jurist.org on Louisiana legislative voting records HB388 May 21, 2014

Lance Harris: Favored fetal heartbeat bill banning early abortions

SB184: Provides that it is unlawful for any person to knowingly perform an abortion with the specific intent of causing or abetting the termination of the life of an unborn human being when a fetal heartbeat has been detected.

Analysis by ABC News (May 30, 2019): The bill itself is similar to some of the other so-called "heartbeat" bills that have been signed into law elsewhere in that it bans abortions after a fetal heartbeat can be detected, which is as early as six weeks into a pregnancy. Unlike some other bills and other existing abortion laws, the Louisiana bill does not include exceptions in cases of rape and incest.

Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 31-5-3 on May/6/19; Passed House 79-23-3 on May/29/19; State Rep. Lance Harris co-sponsored and voted YES; Signed by Governor John Bel Edwards on May/30/19.

Source: ABC News on Louisiana legislative voting records SB184 May 29, 2019

Neil Gorsuch: Ok for states to require hospital nearby abortion service

The Supreme Court blocked Louisiana from enforcing a law that women's groups said would leave only a single doctor legally allowed to perform abortions in the state. By a 5-4 vote, the court said the restrictions must remain on hold while challengers appeal a lower court decision in favor of the law.

The vote was not a ruling on the legal merits of the restriction, but the decision to keep the law on hold signals that a majority of the justices have doubts about its constitutionality. Passed by the state legislature in 2014, the measure requires any doctor offering abortion services to have admitting privileges at a hospital within 30 miles. Plaintiffs argued that it was identical to a Texas law the Supreme Court struck down in 2016, in which the court said Texas imposed an obstacle on women seeking access to abortion services without providing them any medical benefits. Plaintiffs said Louisiana's law would leave only one doctor at a single clinic in New Orleans to perform the procedure.

Source: NBC News on 2019 SCOTUS case: "June Medical vs. Louisiana" Feb 7, 2019

Ralph Abraham: Human life begins at conception

Q: Human life begins at conception and deserves legal protection at every stage until natural death?

ABRAHAM: Strongly Agree

Q: Should abortion be allowed under extenuating circumstances?

ABRAHAM: I am 100% pro-life and I believe that life begins at conception.

Source: Faith2Action iVoterGuide on 2014 Louisiana House race Sep 30, 2014

Ralph Abraham: A child's life begins at conception

100% Pro-Life: We must protect the innocent unborn. I believe that a child's life begins at conception.
Source: 2014 Louisiana House campaign website, RalphAbraham.com Dec 5, 2014

Ruth Bader Ginsburg: Don't require admitting privileges for abortionists

The Supreme Court blocked Louisiana from enforcing a law that women's groups said would leave only a single doctor legally allowed to perform abortions in the state. By a 5-4 vote, the court said the restrictions must remain on hold while challengers appeal a lower court decision in favor of the law.

The vote signaled that a majority of the justices have doubts about the constitutionality of the LA law, which requires any doctor offering abortion services to have admitting privileges at a hospital within 30 miles. Plaintiffs argued that it was identical to a Texas law the Supreme Court struck down in 2016, in which the court said Texas imposed an obstacle on women seeking access to abortion services without providing them any medical benefits. It was the most important abortion ruling in 25 years and blocked similar restrictions in AL, MS, OK, TN, and WI.

Plaintiffs said Louisiana's law would leave only one doctor at a single clinic in New Orleans to perform the procedure

Source: NBC News on 2019 SCOTUS case: "June Medical vs. Louisiana" Feb 7, 2019

Samuel Alito: Ok for states to require hospital nearby abortion service

The Supreme Court blocked Louisiana from enforcing a law that women's groups said would leave only a single doctor legally allowed to perform abortions in the state. By a 5-4 vote, the court said the restrictions must remain on hold while challengers appeal a lower court decision in favor of the law.

The vote was not a ruling on the legal merits of the restriction, but the decision to keep the law on hold signals that a majority of the justices have doubts about its constitutionality. Passed by the state legislature in 2014, the measure requires any doctor offering abortion services to have admitting privileges at a hospital within 30 miles. Plaintiffs argued that it was identical to a Texas law the Supreme Court struck down in 2016, in which the court said Texas imposed an obstacle on women seeking access to abortion services without providing them any medical benefits. Plaintiffs said Louisiana's law would leave only one doctor at a single clinic in New Orleans to perform the procedure.

Source: NBC News on 2019 SCOTUS case: "June Medical vs. Louisiana" Feb 7, 2019

Sonia Sotomayor: Don't require admitting privileges for abortionists

The Supreme Court blocked Louisiana from enforcing a law that women's groups said would leave only a single doctor legally allowed to perform abortions in the state. By a 5-4 vote, the court said the restrictions must remain on hold while challengers appeal a lower court decision in favor of the law.

The vote signaled that a majority of the justices have doubts about the constitutionality of the LA law, which requires any doctor offering abortion services to have admitting privileges at a hospital within 30 miles. Plaintiffs argued that it was identical to a Texas law the Supreme Court struck down in 2016, in which the court said Texas imposed an obstacle on women seeking access to abortion services without providing them any medical benefits. It was the most important abortion ruling in 25 years and blocked similar restrictions in AL, MS, OK, TN, and WI.

Plaintiffs said Louisiana's law would leave only one doctor at a single clinic in New Orleans to perform the procedure

Source: NBC News on 2019 SCOTUS case: "June Medical vs. Louisiana" Feb 7, 2019

Stephen Breyer: Don't require admitting privileges for abortionists

The Supreme Court blocked Louisiana from enforcing a law that women's groups said would leave only a single doctor legally allowed to perform abortions in the state. By a 5-4 vote, the court said the restrictions must remain on hold while challengers appeal a lower court decision in favor of the law.

The vote signaled that a majority of the justices have doubts about the constitutionality of the LA law, which requires any doctor offering abortion services to have admitting privileges at a hospital within 30 miles. Plaintiffs argued that it was identical to a Texas law the Supreme Court struck down in 2016, in which the court said Texas imposed an obstacle on women seeking access to abortion services without providing them any medical benefits. It was the most important abortion ruling in 25 years and blocked similar restrictions in AL, MS, OK, TN, and WI.

Plaintiffs said Louisiana's law would leave only one doctor at a single clinic in New Orleans to perform the procedure

Source: NBC News on 2019 SCOTUS case: "June Medical vs. Louisiana" Feb 7, 2019

Thomas Clements: Supreme Court has ruled on abortion

Q: Do you agree or disagree with the statement, "Abortion is a woman's unrestricted right"?

A: United States Supreme Court has ruled according that a woman can make a decision. My interpretation.

Source: Email interview on 2016 Louisiana Senate race by OnTheIssues Jul 31, 2016

Troy Carter: Opposed fetal heartbeat bill banning early abortions

SB184: Provides that it is unlawful for any person to knowingly perform an abortion with the specific intent of causing or abetting the termination of the life of an unborn human being when a fetal heartbeat has been detected.

Analysis by ABC News (May 30, 2019): The bill itself is similar to some of the other so-called "heartbeat" bills that have been signed into law elsewhere in that it bans abortions after a fetal heartbeat can be detected, which is as early as six weeks into a pregnancy. Unlike some other bills and other existing abortion laws, the Louisiana bill does not include exceptions in cases of rape and incest.

Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 31-5-3 on May/6/19; State Sen. Troy Carter voted NO; Passed House 79-23-3 on May/29/19; Signed by Governor John Bel Edwards on May/30/19.

Source: ABC News on Louisiana legislative voting records SB184 May 6, 2019

Buddy Roemer: Vetoed abortion bill because no exception for rape & incest

Louisiana Gov. Buddy Roemer vetoed what has been called the strictest anti-abortion bill in the nation, setting the stage for a fight to override his action in the Legislature. The Louisiana House of Representatives voted 73 to 31 to override the veto. Senators voted 21 to 18 to adjourn rather than vote on an override.

The bill allows abortions only to save the mother’s life. Roemer, a Democrat, objected that the bill did not allow abortions in cases of rape and incest.

Rep. Mitch Landrieu who said he opposed the measure because it could provide for the criminal prosecution of women who seek abortions, said abortion opponents "led their flock off of a cliff."

"They knew from the beginning that, if the rape and incest exceptions weren't added, the bill would be vetoed and that they probably didn't have enough votes for an override," Landrieu said. "They were irresponsible, and I think they let a lot of their followers down by pursuing a faulty strategy."

Source: Los Angeles Times on 2023 Louisiana Gubernatorial race Jul 7, 1990

Gary Chambers: Codify Roe v. Wade, repeal the Hyde Amendment

Gary supports measures like the Women's Health Protection Act which codify Roe v. Wade's provisions into law and ensure that people have access to abortions until the fetus is viable.

The Hyde Amendment which bans the use of federal funds to pay for an abortion except to save a woman's life or in the case of incest or rape needs to be repealed. Women have the right to choose, and we need to ensure that all people have access to all of the healthcare that they need. Abortions are healthcare.

Source: 2022 Senate campaign website ChambersForLouisiana.com Oct 12, 2022

Luke Mixon: I would vote to codify Roe and protect women's health care

I was deeply disappointed with the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe. Forcing survivors of rape or incest to give birth, risking women's lives, and threatening to jail doctors are not the values I foght to defend. We must defeat these radical laws. I would proudly vote to codify Roe and protect women's health care.
Source: 2022 Louisiana Senate campaign website LukeMixon.com Oct 12, 2022

Mitch Landrieu: Opposed anti-abortion measure including criminal prosecution

Louisiana Gov. Buddy Roemer vetoed what has been called the strictest anti-abortion bill in the nation, setting the stage for a fight to override his action in the Legislature. The Louisiana House of Representatives voted 73 to 31 to override the veto. Senators voted 21 to 18 to adjourn rather than vote on an override.

The bill allows abortions only to save the mother’s life. Roemer, a Democrat, objected that the bill did not allow abortions in cases of rape and incest.

Rep. Mitch Landrieu who said he opposed the measure because it could provide for the criminal prosecution of women who seek abortions, said abortion opponents "led their flock off of a cliff."

"They knew from the beginning that, if the rape and incest exceptions weren't added, the bill would be vetoed and that they probably didn't have enough votes for an override," Landrieu said. "They were irresponsible, and I think they let a lot of their followers down by pursuing a faulty strategy."

Source: Los Angeles Times on 2023 Louisiana Gubernatorial race Jul 7, 1990

John Bel Edwards: Add rape and incest exceptions to our abortion ban

I know our pro-life position can include basic empathy for women who are victims of rape and incest. I simply do not know how we as a state can tell a young girl or any victim of rape or incest that she must be forced by law to carry her rapist's baby to term, regardless of the impact on her own physical or mental health, the wishes of her parents, or the medical judgment of her physician. I urge you to add rape and incest exceptions to our abortion ban.
Source: 2023 State of the State Address to the Louisiana legislature Apr 10, 2023

Shawn Wilson: Personally opposes but won't impose his beliefs on others

Wilson didn't describe himself as being "pro-choice" like abortion rights supporters typically do.

The Democrat said he personally opposes abortion except in cases where a pregnant person was a victim of rape or incest--or their health is at risk. But he also believes his personal beliefs shouldn't be imposed on others. Wilson said he is "not interested in preventing folks from making decisions that are private," and "I dare not question their doctor's expertise."

Source: Louisiana Illuminator on 2023 Louisiana Gubernatorial race Mar 14, 2023

Jeff Landry: A fearless champion for Louisiana's right-to-life laws

Louisiana is proudly one of the most pro-life states in the nation, with over 70% of Louisianans supporting the rights of the unborn. Jeff Landry is a fearless champion for Louisiana's right-to-life laws and leads the national conversation to support the most vulnerable among us. In Congress, Jeff earned a 100% rating from National Right to Life. As our Attorney General, Jeff Landry has continued the vital work of protecting the unborn.
Source: 2023 Louisiana Gubernatorial campaign website JeffLandry.com Mar 21, 2023

John Schroder: Opposes state ballot initiative to override abortion ban

Republican Treasurer John Schroder agrees the legislature's abortion ban is reflective of what voters in the state want and he's against a ballot initiative. "I see no reason to do that. This is the process we live by, and the people are represented by every legislator that they send to that building both in the House and Senate," said Schroder.
Source: Louisiana Radio Network on 2023 Louisiana Gubernatorial race Sep 10, 2023

John Schroder: Abortion doctors must have hospital admitting privileges

HB388: Provides for requirements of physicians who perform abortions.

Opposition by Jurist.org:  The law would likely shut down three of the state's five abortion clinics. Proponents of the bill argue that admitting privileges requirements further the objective of promoting women's health. Critics contend that bills like HB 388 are thinly-veiled attempts to outlaw abortions entirely. A Planned Parenthood press release [says HB 388] was passed under the guise of protecting patient safety but it does the opposite. Data from the CDC shows that abortion has over a 99 percent safety record. For patients' safety, providers already have plans in place in case of an emergency.

Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 34-3-2, Vote #988 on May/14/14; Passed House 88-5-11, Vote #1108 on May/21/14; State Rep. John Schroder voted YES; Signed by Governor Bobby Jindal on Jun/12/14 [Note: this was the law overturned by the Supreme Court in June 2020.]

Source: Jurist.org on Louisiana legislative voting records HB388 May 21, 2020

Sharon Hewitt: A leader in passing the state's strict abortion ban

Hewitt also was a leader in passing the state's strict abortion ban. When asked if she'd be open to allowing exceptions for rape and incest into the law, she said she hasn't seen a bill allowing it that she agrees with. "I have not seen any other legislation or any other bills proposed that I thought did a better job than what we have in place right now," Hewitt said.
Source: Baton Rouge Proud on 2023 Louisiana Gubernatorial race Aug 14, 2023

Sharon Hewitt: Favored fetal heartbeat bill banning early abortions

SB184: Provides that it is unlawful for any person to knowingly perform an abortion with the specific intent of causing or abetting the termination of the life of an unborn human being when a fetal heartbeat has been detected.

Analysis by ABC News (May 30, 2019): The bill itself is similar to some of the other so-called "heartbeat" bills that have been signed into law elsewhere in that it bans abortions after a fetal heartbeat can be detected, which is as early as six weeks into a pregnancy. Unlike some other bills and other existing abortion laws, the Louisiana bill does not include exceptions in cases of rape and incest.

Legislative Outcome:  Passed Senate 31-5-3 on May/6/19; State Sen. Sharon Hewitt voted YES; Passed House 79-23-3 on May/29/19; Signed by Governor John Bel Edwards on May/30/19.

Source: ABC News on Louisiana legislative voting records SB184 May 6, 2019

Shawn Wilson: Study impact of abortion laws on our medical schools

Source: 2023 Louisiana Governor campaign website WilsonForLA.com Oct 5, 2023

Tim Walz: Minnesota will protect reproductive freedom including IVF

When Roe v. Wade was overturned in 2022, the door was wide open for this kind of attack on families. Here in Minnesota, we took action after Roe v. Wade fell, writing protections for reproductive freedom into our state laws, and making sure that people-- not politicians--can make their own reproductive choices. And that includes IVF. So let me make this clear: As long as I'm Governor, IVF will continue to offer a lifeline of hope for Minnesota families.
Source: 2024 State of the State Address to the Louisiana legislature Mar 26, 2024

Bill Cassidy: FDA slow-walking Mifepristone study & should prioritize it

Q: There are no ongoing safety studies into the abortion drug Mifepristone, but the FDA says there is.

CASSIDY: It's taken a long time to get that study up and going, which suggests that it's not a priority. For the pro-life community, this should be a priority. I am disappointed by the way this is being slow-walked. It just needs to happen. We need to have the evidence out there.

Q: The American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists said that Mifepristone is safe & effective and that there are side effects in less than 1% of patients. Is this politically motivated, the slow-walking?

CASSIDY: The FDA commissioners said that they're trying to get the study together. But they've been in office long enough that it could be. And so, I think that it's right to be impatient. I don't know if the decision starts with the FDA commissioner. I think the FDA commissioner, in many cases, is receiving directives from on high. I don't know that for sure, but I suspect that's the case.

Source: CBS Face the Nation interview on 2026 Louisiana Senate race Dec 14, 2025

  • The above quotations are from State of Louisiana Politicians: Archives.
  • Click here for definitions & background information on Abortion.
  • Click here for other issues (main summary page).
2024 Presidential contenders on Abortion:
  Candidates for President & Vice-President:
V.P.Kamala Harris (D-CA)
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.(I-CA)
Chase Oliver(L-GA)
Dr.Jill Stein(D-MA)
Former Pres.Donald Trump(R-FL)
Sen.J.D.Vance(R-OH)
Gov.Tim Walz(D-MN)
Dr.Cornel West(I-NJ)

2024 presidential primary contenders:
Pres.Joe_Biden(D-DE)
N.D.Gov.Doug Burgum(R)
N.J.Gov.Chris_Christie(R)
Fla.Gov.Ron_DeSantis(R)
S.C.Gov.Nikki_Haley(R)
Ark.Gov.Asa_Hutchinson(R)
Former V.P.Mike Pence(R-IN)
U.S.Rep.Dean_Phillips(D-MN)
Vivek_Ramaswamy(R-OH)
S.C.Sen.Tim_Scott(R)
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Page last updated: Feb 07, 2026