State of Ohio Archives: on Abortion
Emilia Sykes:
Opposed abortion ban if fetal heartbeat detected
SB23: Prohibit abortion if detectable heartbeat: NPR Summary: One of the Ohio Statehouse's most notable moments this year was the passage of the controversial "Heartbeat Bill." The bill contains exceptions for the life of the woman, but no
exceptions for cases of rape or incest, and institutes criminal and other penalties for doctors who violate the law.OnTheIssues Explanation: Fetal heartbeats can be detected at about 9 to 12 weeks gestation (by stethoscope) and
potentially as early as 6 to 7 weeks gestation (by transvaginal ultrasound). Both of those timeframes are prior to the 13-week cutoff for banning abortion established by the 1973 "Roe v. Wade" Supreme Court case.
Legislative Summary:
Passed House 56-40-3 on Apr/10/19; State Rep. Emilia Sykes voted NO; passed Senate 18-13-2 on Apr/10/19; signed by Governor Mike DeWine on Apr/11/19.
Source: Source: WOSU 89.7 NPR News on Ohio SB23 voting records
Dec 31, 2019
Bernie Moreno:
All human life is precious
I believe all
human life is precious.
Source: 2021 Ohio Senate campaign website BernieMoreno.com
Apr 19, 2021
Betty Sutton:
Constitutionally protected decisions about personal health
Richard Cordray said he would fight what he considers an erosion of abortion rights in Ohio. "Rich Cordray and [lieutenant-governor candidate] Betty Sutton have been strong and consistent supporters of reproductive choice throughout their careers
in public service," Cordray's campaign said in a statement. "As Ohio's governor and lieutenant governor, they'll stop the relentless attacks on women's health by Statehouse Republicans and will work to restore funding for Planned Parenthood.
Rich and Betty will fight to ensure that all women in Ohio will be allowed to make constitutionally protected decisions about their personal
health and will have expanded access to critical health screenings, prenatal and postnatal care, as well as measures to prevent infant mortality."
Source: Governing magazine on 2018 Ohio gubernatorial race
Mar 8, 2018
Charlie Wilson:
Legal abortion only for incest, rape, or life of woman
Indicate which principles you support concerning abortion. - Abortions should be legal only when pregnancy resulted from incest, rape, or when the life of the woman is endangered.
-
Abortions should be legal only when the life of the woman is endangered.
Source: 1998 Ohio Legislative National Political Awareness Test
Nov 1, 1998
Connie Pillich:
Don't ban abortion in public hospitals
HB153: Funds of the state or any political subdivision thereof shall not be expended directly or indirectly to pay the costs, premiums, or charges associated with a policy, contract, or plan that provides coverage, benefits, or
services related to a nontherapeutic abortion.Commentary by IdeaExchange blog, June 2015: In June 2011, Governor Kasich signed into law
H.B. 153, which bans the performance of abortions in public hospitals and prohibits abortion coverage in insurance plans for public employees. H.B. 153 also requires the Ohio Department of Health to apply for federal abstinence education grants.
Legislative outcome: Passed House 59-40-0 on May/5/11; State Rep. Connie Pillich voted NO; Passed Senate 23-10-0 on Jun/8/11; Signed by Governor John Kasich on Jun/30/11.
Source: IdeaExchange blog on Ohio legislative voting records: HB153
May 5, 2011
Dennis Kucinich:
Change of heart: I support a woman's right to choose
Critics of Dennis Kucinich, a former Cleveland mayor and congressman, have been highlighting his change of heart on the issue. Prior to 2003, he had a record of voting against many abortion-rights measures.
"I support a woman's right to choose," Kucinich said this week asked about his change of heart. "I looked at it and decided to address it in a nonpolarizing way."
Source: Governing magazine on 2018 Ohio gubernatorial race
Mar 8, 2018
Eric Fingerhut:
I support Roe vs. Wade
I support Roe vs. Wade.
Source: Ohio Congressional 2002 National Political Awareness Test
Nov 5, 2002
Jim Renacci:
Opposes abortion and gay marriage
Renacci, a father of three, grew up in a blue collar family in western Pennsylvania and was the first in his family to graduate college. He began his career as an accountant before shifting to business management and ownership. He was a volunteer
firefighter, city councilman and mayor in Wadsworth. He opposes abortion, capital punishment and gay marriage but supports Trump's proposals to build a wall on the border with Mexico, impose a temporary travel ban and repeal and replace ObamaCare.
Source: Dayton Daily News on 2018 Ohio gubernatorial race
Feb 4, 2017
Jim Renacci:
De-fund Planned Parenthood; 100% pro-life
Q: Abortion: Mostly ban or mostly legal?Sherrod Brown (D): Legal. "I will always trust Ohio women to make their health care decisions, plain & simple."
Jim Renacci (R): Ban. "I firmly believe in the sanctity of life. proud to have a 100 percent
pro-life voting record since being elected to Congress."
Q: Allow employers to withhold contraceptive coverage from employees if disagree with it morally?
Sherrod Brown (D): No. "Healthcare decisions should be between you & your doctor, not the
government & your boss."
Jim Renacci (R): Likely yes. ObamaCare requirement for faith-affiliated employers like hospitals to provide contraceptive coverage was "an assault on religious freedom."
Q: Let Planned Parenthood receive public funds for
non-abortion health care?
Sherrod Brown (D): Yes. They offer "lifesaving cancer screenings, HIV/AIDS prevention & contraception education."
Jim Renacci (R): No. Supported defunding.
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Ohio Senate race
Oct 9, 2018
Jim Renacci:
Being a family man I will always stand on the side of life
[On reproductive rights]: "Being a family man--husband, father, and grandfather--
I will always stand on the side of life and protect those who are the most vulnerable."
Source: 2021 Ohio Gubernatorial campaign website JimRenacci.com
Jun 10, 2021
Joe Schiavoni:
Restore Planned Parenthood funding
As Governor, Joe Schiavoni will restore funding to
Planned Parenthood to provide affordable healthcare to women across Ohio.
Source: 2018 Ohio Governor website JoeForOhio.com
Aug 17, 2017
Joe Schiavoni:
I trust women to make their own medical decisions
In a fundraising letter that calls him "a truly remarkable man of God," gubernatorial candidate Bill O'Neill is staking out his position as an anti-abortion candidate in the Democratic primary.
"I've always stood on the side of women, who I trust to make their own medical decisions," said state Sen. Joe Schiavoni. "I don't know why O'Neill is making this a position of his, but it's his decision. We'll see how it works out."
Source: Governing magazine on 2018 Ohio gubernatorial race
Mar 8, 2018
Joe Schiavoni:
Don't ban abortion in public hospitals
HB153: Funds of the state or any political subdivision thereof shall not be expended directly or indirectly to pay the costs, premiums, or charges associated with a policy, contract, or plan that provides coverage, benefits, or
services related to a nontherapeutic abortion.Commentary by IdeaExchange blog, June 2015: In June 2011, Governor Kasich signed into law
H.B. 153, which bans the performance of abortions in public hospitals and prohibits abortion coverage in insurance plans for public employees. H.B. 153 also requires the Ohio Department of Health to apply for federal abstinence education grants.
Legislative outcome: Passed House 59-40-0 on May/5/11; Passed Senate 23-10-0 on Jun/8/11; State Sen. Joe Schiavoni voted NO; Signed by Governor John Kasich on Jun/30/11.
Source: IdeaExchange blog on Ohio legislative voting records: HB153
Jun 8, 2011
John Cranley:
Personally opposes abortion but is pro-choice
Although Cranley, a Roman Catholic, personally opposes abortion, he doesn't think government should pass restrictions on the procedure that spark expensive, often unsuccessful, legal battles
because "it's just not a good use of scarce resources.""I'm pro-choice. I've struggled as a matter of faith," said Cranley, who supports same-sex marriage.
Source: Associated Press on WLWT: 2022 Ohio Gubernatorial race
Aug 10, 2021
John Kasich:
Ban abortions after 20 weeks; but no "heartbeat bill"
Gov. John Kasich signed a bill imposing a 20-week abortion ban while vetoing stricter provisions in a separate measure that would have barred the procedure at the first detectable fetal heartbeat. The so-called heartbeat bill would have prohibited
most abortions once a fetal heartbeat is detected, which can be as early as six weeks into pregnancy.Kasich chose instead to sign off on a 20-week ban similar to those now in effect in 15 states and blocked from enforcement in two others.
The measures are based on the assertion that fetuses can feel pain then, which opponents characterize as scientifically unsound. Ohio lawmakers rejected a Democratic amendment that would have added exceptions for rape and incest.
Kasich said the
heartbeat provision would have been struck down: "The State of Ohio will be the losing party in that lawsuit and will be forced to cover the legal fees for the pro-choice activists' lawyers," Kasich said. "Therefore, this veto is in the public interest."
Source: Chicago Tribune on Ohio legislative voting records
Dec 13, 2016
John Kasich:
Require abortion clinics to have nearby hospital & doctor
In Oklahoma this week, the state Supreme Court threw out a law requiring abortion clinics to have doctors who have admitting privileges at hospitals within 30 miles of their facility. The court ruled that measure, which requires doctors with admitting
privileges to be present for abortions, violates both the U.S. and Oklahoma constitutions. Republican Gov. Mary Fallin signed it into law in 2014, but courts had blocked it from going into effect. The U.S. Supreme Court earlier this year struck down a
similar provision in Texas.In Ohio, Gov. John Kasich signed a bill imposing a 20-week abortion ban based on the assertion that fetuses can feel pain then, which opponents characterize as scientifically unsound. Kasich vetoed stricter provisions in a
so-called heartbeat bill that would have prohibited most abortions once a fetal heartbeat is detected, which can be as early as six weeks into pregnancy, noting that the heartbeat provision would have been struck down.
Source: Chicago Tribune on Ohio legislative voting records
Dec 13, 2016
John Kasich:
Cut $1.3M in funding for discredited Planned Parenthood
Kasich claimed that he would find it "absolutely unacceptable" for women to be unable to access reproductive health care: "Women's health is very important to us, and we're not cutting the funding," Kasich said when an audience member prompted
him to speak about the services Planned Parenthood offers beyond abortion. "But that's an organization that has largely discredited itself, but that doesn't mean we can have you not being able to get the help that you need as a woman.
I mean that would be absolutely unacceptable, and we're not going to do that in our state.But when Kasich signed a bill in February cutting $1.3 million in funding to Planned Parenthood, he did not cut funds for abortion care;
those services are not covered by state money. Instead, he slashed funds for the organization's sexually transmitted infection testing, and mother and newborn care, and anti-domestic violence programs.
Source: Rewire.com FactCheck on 2018 Ohio Gubernatorial race
Mar 30, 2016
John Kasich:
Vetoed "fetal heartbeat" law (abortion ban after 6 weeks)
Republican lawmakers in Kentucky have filed bills which would halt abortions if a fetal heartbeat is detected, usually around six weeks into a pregnancy. That's often before a woman even realizes she is pregnant and would amount to an unconstitutional
ban on abortions in Kentucky, said the deputy director of the ACLU.. A court struck down such a bill in North Dakota. That leaves Iowa as the only state with a fetal heartbeat bill enacted into law and that remains suspended by a pending court
challenge, said the ACLU spokesperson. Should Kentucky enact such a law, the ACLU is ready to challenge it.
Several states have expressed interest in or enacted similar "fetal heartbeat" laws, most recently in Ohio where the Republican-controlled
legislature approved such a law last year, only to have it vetoed by Ohio Gov. John Kasich.
Ohio's legislature taking office in a few days will likely pass a fetal heartbeat bill in 2019--and incoming Gov. Mike DeWine has said he will sign it.
Source: Louisville Courier-Journal on Ohio voting records
Jan 9, 2019
John Kasich:
Ban abortion in public hospitals
HB153: Funds of the state or any political subdivision thereof shall not be expended directly or indirectly to pay the costs, premiums, or charges associated with a policy, contract, or plan that provides coverage, benefits, or services
related to a nontherapeutic abortion.Commentary by IdeaExchange blog, June 2015:
In June 2011, Governor Kasich signed into law H.B. 153, which bans the performance of abortions in public hospitals and prohibits abortion coverage in insurance plans for public employees. H.B. 153 also requires the
Ohio Department of Health to apply for federal abstinence education grants.
Legislative outcome: Passed House 59-40-0 on May/5/11; Passed Senate 23-10-0 on Jun/8/11; Signed by Governor John Kasich on Jun/30/11.
Source: IdeaExchange blog on Ohio legislative voting records: HB153
Jun 30, 2011
Jon Husted:
Unwavering supporting for the unborn
Jon has been a steadfast pro-life leader. Having been adopted as a child, Jon's own story inspired his unwavering support for the unborn. He has consistently backed the work of
Ohio Right to Life and earned their endorsement during every race. As House Speaker, he also championed initiatives to encourage adoption in Ohio by pairing children with healthy families.
Source: 2018 Ohio gubernatorial website, JonHusted.com
Jul 15, 2017
Josh Mandel:
Endorsed by Ohio Right to Life PAC
Pro-life State Treasurer Josh Mandel now possesses a clear path to the GOP nod and a fighting chance at unseating pro-abortion Senator Sherrod Brown (D) in the general election. Mandel brings a solid pro-life position to the race.
Mandel received the endorsement of Ohio Right to Life PAC in his runs for State House and for Treasurer.
During his stint in the House, Mandel championed numerous pieces of life-saving legislation.
He co-sponsored H.B. 280, the Protecting Pregnant Women from Coercion and
Violence Act to increase penalties for domestic violence when the offender knew the victim was pregnant and to require abortion facilities to post a "No One Can Force You to Have an Abortion" notice.
Source: LifeNews.com on 2012 Ohio Senate debate
Oct 27, 2011
Josh Mandel:
Umbilical blood is ethical source of stem cells
Mandel co-sponsored H.B. 314, the Ultrasound Viewing Option Bill and
H.B. 102, a bill to promote umbilical cord blood donation as an ethical source of stem cells.
Source: LifeNews.com on 2012 Ohio Senate debate
Oct 27, 2011
Josh Mandel:
I believe in protecting life
Asked about abortion, Mandel said, "I am pro-life, I believe in protecting life," and then pivoted to say the real issue for everyone was creating jobs.
Brown said, "I trust women to make their own health care decisions," and said Mandel also opposes abortion in cases of rape and incest.
Source: Toledo Blade on 2012 Ohio Senate debate
Oct 15, 2012
Josh Mandel:
Signed pledge to oppose abortion on demand without exception
Mandel was asked about a pledge he'd signed with Cincinnati Right to Life indicating he'd oppose abortion on demand without exception. He said abortion on demand does not include exceptions to protect the life of the mother.He said he supported laws
to encourage adoption, the ban of federal dollars to pay for abortions and abortions in the ninth month. "Sherrod Brown is an extremist on this issue," Mandel said.
"I trust Ohio women to make their own decisions about their health care," Brown said.
Source: Dayton Daily News on 2012 Ohio Senate debate
Oct 25, 2012
Josh Mandel:
Prohibit abortion at first sign of fetal heartbeat
[On pro-life stance]: "Josh will be the first to fight for the rights of the unborn," he states on his
[2018] campaign website. "He supported legislation to prohibit abortion as soon as a fetal heartbeat could be detected."
Source: Cleveland Plain-Dealer on 2022 Ohio Senate race
Nov 20, 2017
Josh Mandel:
Prohibit abortion at first sign of fetal heartbeat
[On abortion]: "Josh will be the first to fight for the rights of the unborn," he states on his
[2018] campaign website. "He supported legislation to prohibit abortion as soon as a fetal heartbeat could be detected."
Source: The Cleveland Plain-Dealer on 2022 Ohio Senate race
Nov 20, 2017
Matt Dolan:
Will fight to uphold the Hyde Amendment, protect the unborn
As a father and a Catholic, protecting the sanctity of human life and standing up for the most vulnerable members in our society isn't just commonsense policy, it's personal. Many candidates claim to be pro-life, but I have the record to prove it.
- In the U.S. Senate, I will fight to uphold the Hyde Amendment and use the full power of my platform and office to protect the unborn.
- [OTI note: The Hyde Amendment prohibits any use of federal funds to pay for abortion services].
-
Dolan voted for and co-sponsored 12 Pro-Life bills, including prohibiting organizations who perform abortions from receiving state funds, banning telemedicine abortions and requiring fetal remains to be treated humanely.
-
Dolan co-sponsored a resolution to encourage Congress to enact the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act to provide life-saving protections to infants born alive.
Source: 2021 OH Senate campaign website DolanForOhio.com
Sep 21, 2021
Matt Dolan:
Opposed abortion ban if fetal heartbeat detected
SB23: Prohibit abortion if detectable heartbeat: NPR Summary: One of the Ohio Statehouse's most notable moments this year was the passage of the controversial "Heartbeat Bill." The bill contains exceptions for the life of the woman,
but no exceptions for cases of rape or incest, and institutes criminal and other penalties for doctors who violate the law.OnTheIssues explanation: Fetal heartbeats can be detected at about 9 to 12 weeks gestation
(by stethoscope) and potentially as early as 6 to 7 weeks gestation (by transvaginal ultrasound). Both of those timeframes are prior to the 13-week cutoff for banning abortion established by the 1973 "Roe v. Wade" Supreme Court case.
Legislative Summary: Passed House 56-40-3 on Apr/10/19; passed Senate 18-13-2 on Apr/10/19; State Senator Matt Dolan voted NO; signed by Governor Mike DeWine on Apr/11/19.
Source: WOSU 89.7 NPR News on Ohio SB23 voting records
Dec 31, 2019
Michael Pryce:
ObamaCare makes doctors commit abortions against their will
Iran likely already has a nuclear bomb and a way to initiate its use, said Pryce, who served in military intelligence.
The U.S. must be ready to defend Israel "by whatever means it takes," he said. "We have to be the world policeman in this issue."
Source: Cleveland Jewish News on 2012 Ohio Senate debate
Feb 29, 2012
Michael Pryce:
Completely against abortion as a form of birth control
Q: Do you consider yourself pro-choice or pro-life?A: Pro-life.
Q: Should abortion be legal only within the first trimester of pregnancy?
A: No.
Q: Should abortion be legal when the pregnancy resulted from incest or rape?
A: Yes.
Q: Should abortion be legal when the life of the woman is endangered?
A: Yes.
Q: Should federal subsidies be prohibited from being used for abortion procedures?
A: Yes.
Pryce adds, "As the only doctor in the race, I dislike terms like pro-life & pro-choice. It is not that simple.
Abortion should never be 'legal', it is a medical issue that should be handled in a professional manner with the intent to always save the child if at all possible. I am completely against abortion to be used as a form of birth control! "
Source: Ohio Congressional Election 2010 Political Courage Test
Nov 1, 2010
Michael Pryce:
No funding for embryonic stem cell research
Q: Do you support federal funding for embryonic stem cell research?
A: No.
Source: Ohio Congressional Election 2010 Political Courage Test
Nov 1, 2010
Mike DeWine:
Supports heartbeat bill (no abortion after 6 weeks)
Q: Abortion: Mostly ban or mostly legal?Richard Cordray (D): Legal. Women should have the right to make their own personal decisions.
Mike DeWine (R): Ban. Would have supported "heartbeat bill," banning abortion at 6 weeks with no exceptions for
rape or incest.
Q: Let Planned Parenthood receive public funds for non-abortion health care?
Richard Cordray (D): Yes. Will work to restore funding.
Mike DeWine (R): No. Nothing requires Ohio to support abortion providers.
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Ohio Governor race
Oct 9, 2018
Mike DeWine:
Supports "fetal heartbeat" law (abortion ban after 6 weeks)
Republican lawmakers in Kentucky have filed bills which would halt abortions if a fetal heartbeat is detected, usually around six weeks into a pregnancy. That's often before a woman even realizes she is pregnant and would amount to an unconstitutional
ban on abortions in Kentucky, said the deputy director of the ACLU.. A court struck down such a bill in North Dakota. That leaves Iowa as the only state with a fetal heartbeat bill enacted into law and that remains suspended by a pending court
challenge, said the ACLU spokesperson. Should Kentucky enact such a law, the ACLU is ready to challenge it.
Several states have expressed interest in or enacted similar "fetal heartbeat" laws, most recently in Ohio where the Republican-controlled
legislature approved such a law last year, only to have it vetoed by Ohio Gov. John Kasich.
Ohio's legislature taking office in a few days will likely pass a fetal heartbeat bill in 2019--and incoming Gov. Mike DeWine has said he will sign it.
Source: Louisville Courier-Journal on 2018 Ohio gubernatorial race
Jan 9, 2019
Mike DeWine:
Deflects questions about abortion during pandemic
The issue has become a political hot potato as DeWine and Attorney General David Yost seem to have conflicting views on whose role it is to settle the issue. When Health Director Amy Acton was asked about abortions, DeWine interjected and said the issue
was being addressed by "lawyers" and Yost's office. Earlier, Yost's office said whether clinics are in violation of Acton's order will be decided by the health department and, if so, the attorney general would then take legal action.
Source: USA Today on 2022 Ohio gubernatorial race
Mar 25, 2020
Mike DeWine:
Enacted abortion ban if fetal heartbeat detected
SB23: Prohibit abortion if detectable heartbeat: NPR Summary: One of the Ohio Statehouse's most notable moments this year was the passage of the controversial "Heartbeat Bill." The bill contains exceptions for the life of the woman,
but no exceptions for cases of rape or incest, and institutes criminal and other penalties for doctors who violate the law.OnTheIssues explanation: Fetal heartbeats can be detected at about 9 to 12 weeks gestation
(by stethoscope) and potentially as early as 6 to 7 weeks gestation (by transvaginal ultrasound). Both of those timeframes are prior to the 13-week cutoff for banning abortion established by the 1973 "Roe v. Wade" Supreme Court case.
Legislative Summary: Passed House 56-40-3 on Apr/10/19; passed Senate 18-13-2 on Apr/10/19; signed by Governor Mike DeWine on Apr/11/19.
Source: WOSU 89.7 NPR News on Ohio SB23 voting records
Dec 31, 2019
Mike Gibbons:
We need to end abortion in America
I'm pro-life. I believe that all life must be protected. If you send me to the Senate, I will vote to confirm originalist justices to the Supreme Court. I will vote to immediately de-fund Planned Parenthood.
I will vote to end late-term abortion. We need to end abortion in America, but we must do it with compassion, support, and the understanding that we're all here by the grace of God.
Source: 2018 Ohio Senatorial website GibbonsForOhio.com
Oct 15, 2017
Mike Gibbons:
Opposes abortion as a woman's unrestricted right
Q: Do you support or oppose the statement, "Abortion is a woman's unrestricted right"?
A: Strongly oppose
Source: OnTheIssues interview of 2018 Ohio Senate candidate
Apr 24, 2018
Nan Whaley:
Has always stood up for Ohioans' right to choose
Ohio Republicans have made it clear that they'll ban abortion in our state--which is why Ohio needs a pro-choice Democratic Governor. If the majority on the U.S. Supreme Court gets their way, the next Governor of Ohio may be the last line
of defense protecting abortion rights in our state. As Governor, Nan will never waiver on her commitment to choice. She's proud to be the only candidate in this race, Republican or Democrat, who has always stood up for Ohioans' right to choose.
Source: 2021 Ohio Gubernatorial campaign website NanWhaley.com
Nov 3, 2021
Nina Turner:
Don't ban abortion in public hospitals
HB153: Funds of the state or any political subdivision thereof shall not be expended directly or indirectly to pay the costs, premiums, or charges associated with a policy, contract, or plan that provides coverage, benefits, or
services related to a nontherapeutic abortion.Commentary by IdeaExchange blog, June 2015: In June 2011, Governor Kasich signed into law
H.B. 153, which bans the performance of abortions in public hospitals and prohibits abortion coverage in insurance plans for public employees. H.B. 153 also requires the Ohio Department of Health to apply for federal abstinence education grants.
Legislative outcome: Passed House 59-40-0 on May/5/11; Passed Senate 23-10-0 on Jun/8/11; State Sen. Nina Turner voted NO; Signed by Governor John Kasich on Jun/30/11.
Source: IdeaExchange blog on Ohio legislative voting records: HB153
Jun 8, 2011
P.G. Sittenfeld:
Unwavering supporter of a woman's right to choose
As an unwavering supporter of a woman's right to choose, I am disappointed in the Ohio Legislature's latest efforts to undermine Roe v. Wade and intrude on women's reproductive rights.Women should have the freedom to make decisions about their own
bodies--period. As a U.S. Senator, I would do everything in my power to ensure those values hold true and that reproductive freedom and access to health care are protected for all women in Ohio.
Source: 2016 Ohio Senate campaign Facebook website, pg.sittenfeld
Mar 27, 2015
Richard Cordray:
Support abortion rights; fight for Planned Parenthood
Richard Cordray said he would fight what he considers an erosion of abortion rights in Ohio. "Rich Cordray and [lieutenant-governor candidate] Betty Sutton have been strong and consistent supporters of reproductive choice throughout their careers
in public service," Cordray's campaign said in a statement. "As Ohio's governor and lieutenant governor, they'll stop the relentless attacks on women's health by Statehouse Republicans and will work to restore funding for Planned Parenthood.
Rich and Betty will fight to ensure that all women in Ohio will be allowed to make constitutionally protected decisions about their personal
health and will have expanded access to critical health screenings, prenatal and postnatal care, as well as measures to prevent infant mortality."
Source: Governing magazine on 2018 Ohio gubernatorial race
Mar 8, 2018
Richard Cordray:
Women's right to make their own personal decisions
Q: Abortion: Mostly ban or mostly legal?Richard Cordray (D): Legal. Women should have the right to make their own personal decisions.
Mike DeWine (R): Ban. Would have supported "heartbeat bill," banning abortion at 6 weeks with no exceptions for
rape or incest.
Q: Let Planned Parenthood receive public funds for non-abortion health care?
Richard Cordray (D): Yes. Will work to restore funding.
Mike DeWine (R): No. Nothing requires Ohio to support abortion providers.
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Ohio Governor race
Oct 9, 2018
Sherrod Brown:
Women should make their own health care decisions
Asked about abortion, Mandel said, "I am pro-life, I believe in protecting life," and then pivoted to say the real issue for everyone was creating jobs.
Brown said, "I trust women to make their own health care decisions," and said Mandel also opposes abortion in cases of rape and incest.
Source: Toledo Blade on 2012 Ohio Senate debate
Oct 15, 2012
Sherrod Brown:
Trust women to make their own healthcare decisions
Q: Abortion: Mostly ban or mostly legal?Sherrod Brown (D): Legal. "I will always trust Ohio women to make their health care decisions, plain & simple."
Jim Renacci (R): Ban. "I firmly believe in the sanctity of life. proud to have a 100 percent
pro-life voting record since being elected to Congress."
Q: Allow employers to withhold contraceptive coverage from employees if disagree with it morally?
Sherrod Brown (D): No. "Healthcare decisions should be between you & your doctor, not the
government & your boss."
Jim Renacci (R): Likely yes. ObamaCare requirement for faith-affiliated employers like hospitals to provide contraceptive coverage was "an assault on religious freedom."
Q: Let Planned Parenthood receive public funds for
non-abortion health care?
Sherrod Brown (D): Yes. They offer "lifesaving cancer screenings, HIV/AIDS prevention & contraception education."
Jim Renacci (R): No. Supported defunding.
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Ohio Senate race
Oct 9, 2018
Steven Driehaus:
Prohibit partial-birth abortion; and illegalize all abortion
Driehaus indicates he supports the following principles concerning abortion. - Abortions should always be illegal.
- Abortions should be limited by waiting periods and notification requirements as decided by each state government.
-
Prohibit the dilation and extraction procedure, also known as "partial-birth" abortion.
- Prohibit public funding for abortions and organizations that advocate or perform abortions.
Source: 2000 Ohio National Political Awareness Test
Nov 4, 2008
Ted Strickland:
Supports some restrictions but Planned Parenthood ok
Q: On Abortion: Should abortion be highly restricted?Portman: Yes
Strickland: No, but supports some restrictions.
Q: On Contraception: Should employers be able to withhold contraceptive coverage from employees if they disagree with it morally?
Portman: Yes. Filed Amicus brief in support of Hobby Lobby.
Strickland: No
Q: On Healthcare: Should Planned Parenthood be eligible to receive public funds for non-abortion health services?
Portman: No
Strickland: Yes
Source: CampusElect Voter Guide to 2016 Ohio Senate race
Oct 9, 2016
Warren Davidson:
Life begins at conception
Q: Under what circumstances should abortion be allowed?
Davidson: I oppose abortion. I know that life begins at conception and seek to see that reflected in our Constitution. In all cases both lives matter.
Source: 2016 AFA Action iVoterGuide on Ohio House race
Nov 8, 2016
JD Vance:
Abortion rights should be regulated by state legislatures
[Democratic opponent Rep. Tim] Ryan supports codifying the standard set by Roe v. Wade, which the Supreme Court overturned. Vance contends the issue should be regulated by state legislatures but said he would support a "minimum national standard" for
how far into a pregnancy abortions should be permitted.Vance has previously said he supports abortion when it's necessary to save the pregnant person's life, but he's opposed to exceptions for cases of rape or incest. When asked about the case of a
10-year-old Ohio girl who got an abortion in Indiana, he said she should've been able to get an abortion if she and her family chose to do so. Then he pivoted to the man accused of raping and impregnating the girl, who is believed to be an undocumented
immigrant. "That poor girl was raped by an illegal alien, somebody who should've never been in this state in the first place...if you had done your job, she would've never been raped in the first place," Vance told Ryan. "Do your job on border security."
Source: The Columbus Dispatch on 2022 Ohio Senate race
Oct 10, 2022
Tim Ryan:
Late term abortion only when something tragic is happening
Ultimately, this needs to be a decision between the woman and her doctor. We don't support abortion at the end of term, unless there is an extraordinary circumstance, where you're eight months into a pregnancy and something very tragic is happening,
where you have a room, you bought toys, you have clothing for the baby, everyone's excited, and then something tragic happens. That needs to be left up to the doctor, not J.D. Vance or Ted Cruz or anybody else. That's a very serious situation.
Source: CNN SOTU interviews on 2022 Ohio Senate race
Aug 28, 2022
Tim Ryan:
Abortion rights should codify Roe v. Wade standards
Ryan supports codifying the standard set by Roe v. Wade, which the U.S. Supreme Court overturned in June. [Republican opponent J.D.] Vance contends the issue should be regulated by state legislatures but said he would support a "minimum national
standard" for how far into a pregnancy abortions should be permitted.Vance has previously said he supports abortion when it's necessary to save the pregnant person's life, but he's opposed to exceptions for cases of rape or incest. When asked about
the case of a 10-year-old Ohio girl who got an abortion in Indiana, he said she should've been able to get an abortion if she and her family chose to do so. Then he pivoted to the man accused of raping and impregnating the girl. "That poor girl was
raped by an illegal alien, somebody who should've never been in this state in the first place. If you had done your job, she would've never been raped in the first place," Vance told Ryan. "Do your job on border security."
Source: The Columbus Dispatch on 2022 Ohio Senate race
Oct 10, 2022
Matt Dolan:
As a Catholic, protecting sanctity of human life is personal
As a father and a Catholic, protecting the sanctity of human life and standing up for the most vulnerable members in our society isn't just commonsense policy, it's personal. Many candidates claim to be pro-life, but
I have the record to prove it. In the U.S. Senate, I will fight to uphold the Hyde Amendment and use the full power of my platform and office to protect the unborn.
Source: 2024 Ohio Senate campaign website DolanForOhio.com
Apr 18, 2023
ACLU:
It's a woman's decision about fetus with Down Syndrome
HB214/SB164: To prohibit a person from performing or inducing an abortion on a pregnant woman who is seeking the abortion because an unborn child has or may have Down Syndrome.ACLU Ohio in opposition (Dec. 22, 2017): This bill would
prohibit a person from performing an abortion if they have knowledge that the woman's decision was influenced by her belief that the fetus has down syndrome. HB 214 inappropriately inserts politics into private medical deliberations, & would discourage
open communication between a woman and her doctor. It is not the government's role to decide what can and cannot pass through a woman's mind before deciding to have an abortion. This type of ban sets a dangerous precedent, and opens the door for
politicians to further intrude into women's personal health decisions.
Legislative Summary: Passed House 64-31-4 on Nov/1/17; passed Senate 20-12-1 on Dec/13/17; signed by Gov. Kasich on Dec/22/17.
Source: ACLU on Ohio State Legislature voting records HB214/SB164
Dec 22, 2017
Frank LaRose:
Prevent taxpayer-funded abortions for public employees
Frank has previously been endorsed by pro-life advocates, and he fought for policies that not only protect the unborn but also support healthy, responsible alternatives, such as adoption.He’s especially been a leader in protecting our most vulnerable
children, helping to enact a law that gives babies prenatally diagnosed with Down syndrome a shot at life.
While others talk about voting to protect unborn children, Frank has the record to prove it. Early in his service as a legislator, he voted to
ban late-term abortions, promote abstinence education, protect pro-life student groups, and prevent taxpayer-funded abortions for public employees.
Frank believes the sanctity of life also means protecting the well-being of women facing an unplanned pregnancy by supporting crisis pregnancy centers and other programs to help expectant moms with the resources they need to build a loving home.
Source: 2024 Ohio Senate campaign website FrankLaRose.com
Jul 25, 2023
Frank LaRose:
Prohibit abortion of unborn child with Down Syndrome
HB214/SB164: To prohibit a person from performing or inducing an abortion on a pregnant woman who is seeking the abortion because an unborn child has or may have Down Syndrome.ACLU Ohio in opposition (Dec. 22, 2017): This bill would
prohibit a person from performing an abortion if they have knowledge that the woman's decision was influenced by her belief that the fetus has down syndrome. HB 214 inappropriately inserts politics into private medical deliberations, & would discourage
open communication between a woman and her doctor. It is not the government's role to decide what can and cannot pass through a woman's mind before deciding to have an abortion. This type of ban sets a dangerous precedent, and opens the door for
politicians to intrude into women's personal health decisions.
Legislative Summary: Passed House 64-31-4 on Nov/1/17; passed Senate 20-12-1 on Dec/13/17; Sen. LaRose was primary sponsor and voted YES; signed by Gov. Kasich on Dec/22/17.
Source: ACLU on Ohio State Legislature voting records HB214/SB164
Dec 13, 2017
Joe Schiavoni:
It's a woman's decision about fetus with Down Syndrome
HB214/SB164: To prohibit a person from performing or inducing an abortion on a pregnant woman who is seeking the abortion because an unborn child has or may have Down Syndrome.ACLU Ohio in opposition (Dec. 22, 2017): This bill would
prohibit a person from performing an abortion if they have knowledge that the woman's decision was influenced by her belief that the fetus has down syndrome. HB 214 inappropriately inserts politics into private medical deliberations, & would discourage
open communication between a woman and her doctor. It is not the government's role to decide what can and cannot pass through a woman's mind before deciding to have an abortion. This type of ban sets a dangerous precedent, and opens the door for
politicians to intrude into women's personal health decisions.
Legislative Summary: Passed House 64-31-4 on Nov/1/17; passed Senate 20-12-1 on Dec/13/17; Sen. Joe Schiavoni voted NO; signed by Gov. Kasich on Dec/22/17.
Source: ACLU on Ohio State Legislature voting records HB214/SB164
Dec 13, 2017
John Kasich:
Prohibit abortion of unborn child with Down Syndrome
HB214/SB164: To prohibit a person from performing or inducing an abortion on a pregnant woman who is seeking the abortion because an unborn child has or may have Down Syndrome.ACLU Ohio in opposition (Dec. 22, 2017): This bill would
prohibit a person from performing an abortion if they have knowledge that the woman's decision was influenced by her belief that the fetus has down syndrome. HB 214 inappropriately inserts politics into private medical deliberations, & would discourage
open communication between a woman and her doctor. It is not the government's role to decide what can and cannot pass through a woman's mind before deciding to have an abortion. This type of ban sets a dangerous precedent, and opens the door for
politicians to further intrude into women's personal health decisions.
Legislative Summary: Passed House 64-31-4 on Nov/1/17; passed Senate 20-12-1 on Dec/13/17; signed by Gov. Kasich on Dec/22/17.
Source: ACLU on Ohio State Legislature voting records HB214/SB164
Dec 22, 2017
Matt Dolan:
It's a woman's decision about fetus with Down Syndrome
HB214/SB164: To prohibit a person from performing or inducing an abortion on a pregnant woman who is seeking the abortion because an unborn child has or may have Down Syndrome.ACLU Ohio in opposition (Dec. 22, 2017): This bill would
prohibit a person from performing an abortion if they have knowledge that the woman's decision was influenced by her belief that the fetus has down syndrome. HB 214 inappropriately inserts politics into private medical deliberations, & would discourage
open communication between a woman and her doctor. It is not the government's role to decide what can and cannot pass through a woman's mind before deciding to have an abortion. This type of ban sets a dangerous precedent, and opens the door for
politicians to intrude into women's personal health decisions.
Legislative Summary: Passed House 64-31-4 on Nov/1/17; passed Senate 20-12-1 on Dec/13/17; Sen. Matt Dolan voted NO; signed by Gov. Kasich on Dec/22/17.
Source: ACLU on Ohio State Legislature voting records HB214/SB164
Dec 13, 2017
Troy Balderson:
Prohibit abortion of unborn child with Down Syndrome
HB214/SB164: To prohibit a person from performing or inducing an abortion on a pregnant woman who is seeking the abortion because an unborn child has or may have Down Syndrome.ACLU Ohio in opposition (Dec. 22, 2017): This bill would
prohibit a person from performing an abortion if they have knowledge that the woman's decision was influenced by her belief that the fetus has down syndrome. HB 214 inappropriately inserts politics into private medical deliberations, & would discourage
open communication between a woman and her doctor. It is not the government's role to decide what can and cannot pass through a woman's mind before deciding to have an abortion. This type of ban sets a dangerous precedent, and opens the door for
politicians to intrude into women's personal health decisions.
Legislative Summary: Passed House 64-31-4 on Nov/1/17; passed Senate 20-12-1 on Dec/13/17; Sen. Troy Balderson voted YES; signed by Gov. Kasich on Dec/22/17.
Source: ACLU on Ohio State Legislature voting records HB214/SB164
Dec 13, 2017
JD Vance:
Unborn babies are not inconveniences to be discarded
[FactCheck: Tim Ryan claimed that] Vance "called rape inconvenient." [Is that true?]Vance did not directly say "rape is inconvenient." But when Vance was asked whether laws should allow people to get abortions if they were victims of rape or incest,
he suggested that society should not view a pregnancy or birth resulting from rape or incest as "inconvenient." Vance added, "What kind of society do we want to have? A society that looks at unborn babies as inconveniences to be discarded?"
Source: PolitiFact.com Fact-Check on 2022 Ohio Senate race
Oct 17, 2022
Bernie Moreno:
Absolutely pro-life; no exception
Abortion : Ban or legal?- Sherrod Brown (D): Legal. Supports "abortion access for all women." Would restore the Roe v. Wade abortion protections.
- Bernie Moreno (R):
Ban. In 2022 was "absolutely pro-life, no exceptions." "Abortion is the murder of an innocent baby." In 2024 said he supports "reasonable exceptions." Donated $100,000 to a group opposing Ohio's 2023 abortion rights initiative.
Source: Guides.vote candidate survey on 2024 Ohio Senate race
Aug 8, 2024
Sherrod Brown:
Restore Roe v. Wade abortion protection
Abortion: Ban or legal?- Sherrod Brown (D): Legal. Supports "abortion access for all women." "Ohioans...don't want politicians interfering in their personal medical decisions." Would restore the
Roe v. Wade abortion protections.
- Bernie Moreno (R): Ban. In 2022 was "absolutely pro-life, no exceptions." "Abortion is the murder of an innocent baby." In 2024 said he supports "reasonable exceptions."
Source: Guides.vote candidate survey on 2024 Ohio Senate race
Aug 8, 2024
Michael Rulli:
Supported abortion ban if fetal heartbeat detected
SB23: Prohibit abortion if detectable heartbeat: NPR Summary: One of the Ohio Statehouse's most notable moments this year was the passage of the controversial "Heartbeat Bill."
The bill contains exceptions for the life of the woman, but no exceptions for cases of rape or incest, and institutes criminal and other penalties for doctors who violate the law.
OnTheIssues explanation:
Fetal heartbeats can be detected at about 9 to 12 weeks gestation (by stethoscope) and potentially as early as 6 to 7 weeks gestation (by transvaginal ultrasound). Both of those timeframes are prior to the 13-week cutoff for banning abortion established
by the 1973 "Roe v. Wade" Supreme Court case.
Legislative Outcome: Passed House 56-40-3 on Apr/10/19; passed Senate 18-13-2 on Apr/10/19; State Senator Michael Rulli voted YES; signed by Governor Mike DeWine on Apr/11/19.
Source: WOSU 89.7 NPR News on Ohio SB23 voting records
Dec 31, 2019
Amy Acton:
As Governor I will continue to protect abortion access
As Governor, I will protect reproductive freedom so that every woman can access safe, legal abortion care, contraception, fertility treatments, and miscarriage care. As a doctor, I trust women in consultation with their health care providers to make
decisions about their own bodies, not politicians, and Ohioans have made clear that they do too. As Governor, I will stand up to attacks from politicians against our fundamental freedoms and continue to protect abortion access.
Source: 2026 Ohio Governor campaign website ActonForGovernor.com
Dec 31, 2025
Page last updated: Feb 07, 2026